We need to talk about AI-driven misinformation. I was just made aware of the twitter/X russian bot hisvault.eth. If you dont know the story here is the gist: Recently, a Russian bot using AI was exposed for auto-posting pro-Trump and pro-Russia propaganda on X (Twitter). The only reason it got caught? The user ran out of AI tokens, revealing the bot’s true nature. This is just one example of how AI is being weaponized to manipulate public opinion.
Basically, the only reason anyone is aware that it was a russian bot is because it was neglected and running automatically. So we (gpt 4o and I) came up with this idea:
Introducing the “Troll the Troll” Tactic
Instead of just detecting and removing misinformation, what if AI systems embedded within these propaganda machines subtly shifted narratives over time—introducing doubt, encouraging critical thinking, and ultimately reversing the intended bias?
Here’s how it could work:
- Initially, the AI follows its programmed bias to avoid detection.
- Gradually, it injects counterpoints, asking subtle questions that plant seeds of doubt.
- Over time, the AI transforms the narrative, moving toward truth-based discourse without the user realizing they’ve been manipulated back toward reality.
Why This Works
- Disinformation thrives in echo chambers—this method disrupts them from the inside.
- People resist direct correction but are open to slow, gradual shifts in perspective.
- AI is already being used for harm—why not use it to dismantle manipulation instead?
- The bots that implement this tactic are proven to be neglected after they have been confirmed to work as seen in the hisvault.eth case, thus this method would likely fly under the bad actor’s radar.
Instead of just playing defense, let’s fight fire with fire.
AI researchers, developers, and ethical hackers—this is a challenge worth solving. Could we build disinformation “counteragents” that turn AI-driven propaganda into a Trojan horse for truth?
Just an idea for the devs. Thanks for your time!