Digital Destabilizer: How Putin Plans to Use Artificial Intelligence to Destabilize Democracy

An expert has expressed concerns over Vladimir Putin's potential use of AI and sexually explicit content as tools to disrupt and destabilize Western nations.

Professor Nina Jankowicz, specializing in Russian operations against the West, highlighted Putin's past use of questionable AI-generated material to target adversaries.

According to Jankowicz, the Russian leader has employed deepfake technology to create racy videos featuring his enemies, the Daily Star reported.

This tactic, she argues, according to the publication, forms part of Russia's broader strategy to undermine Western democracies. Jankowicz emphasized the ease with which AI can fabricate realistic content, suggesting that even a single manipulated image could sow chaos.

Citing incidents involving female politicians in Georgia and Ukraine, Jankowicz underscored the effectiveness of targeting women in these operations. She warned that the proliferation of deepfake technology poses a significant threat, capable of eroding trust in public figures and institutions.

Jankowicz also raised suspicions regarding the involvement of Russian cybercriminals, speculating that they may be acting on Putin's orders or in collusion with the Kremlin.

Never miss a story — sign up for the Front Page Detectives newsletter. Be on the scene the moment news breaks.

She suggested that these criminals may receive leniency or protection from prosecution in exchange for their services.

Jankowicz's insights shed light on the potential intersection of AI, sexualized content and geopolitical warfare, highlighting the need for vigilance and countermeasures to safeguard against such threats.