OpenAI says ChatGPT helped uncover Chinese influence operation targeting dissidents

(ABC36 NEWS NOW) – OpenAI says its technology helped uncover a covert Chinese operation aimed at influencing and silencing dissidents living abroad.

According to the company, a Chinese official allegedly used ChatGPT like a personal diary to document details of the influence campaign. OpenAI investigators say those notes were later matched with real-world actions targeting individuals critical of the Chinese government.

In some cases, operators reportedly posed as immigration officials or used forged court documents to intimidate dissidents.

OpenAI says the apparent goal of the operation was to pressure and silence critics outside of China through harassment and deception.

The company did not release specific names but said the findings highlight how artificial intelligence tools can be misused, while also playing a role in uncovering covert influence efforts.