Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized communication, creativity, and productivity. But just like any powerful tool, it can also be used in dangerous ways, particularly in spreading misinformation and manipulating public opinion. The recent revelation from OpenAI about “Operation High Five” serves as a timely reminder of how AI, when misused, can blur the line between authentic expression and manufactured influence.
OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, recently banned accounts based in the Philippines after uncovering an organized effort to use AI-generated content for political influence. According to OpenAI’s report, “Disrupting Malicious Uses of AI,” the campaign, dubbed Operation High Five, involved generating and posting large volumes of comments on Facebook and TikTok that either praised President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. or criticized Vice President Sara Duterte. These comments, written in English and Taglish, were short, positive-sounding, and often filled with emojis, hence the campaign’s name.
The AI-generated messages were produced by ChatGPT and distributed through numerous fake social media accounts. Many of these accounts had little to no followers, and were likely created solely for this operation. The strategy was simple: flood comment sections with seemingly organic posts to make certain narratives appear more popular or widely supported than they actually were.
What makes this case alarming is how systematic and sophisticated the misuse was. According to OpenAI, the people behind the operation used AI at several stages of the campaign. First, ChatGPT analyzed political discussions online to identify trending topics and public sentiment. Next, the AI was tasked to create short, on-theme comments, often fewer than 10 words, to match the identified topics. Finally, ChatGPT helped craft PR materials and statistical reports to make the campaign appear data-driven and credible.
While OpenAI categorized the operation as “low-impact,” it highlights a growing concern: AI can now mass-produce political propaganda with minimal human effort. The comments generated through this operation were designed not only to influence public perception but also to give the illusion of popularity and engagement on social media. This technique, known as “astroturfing,” mimics grassroots support but is entirely artificial.
The incident also reveals how misinformation can evolve. In the past, spreading propaganda required large teams of writers, strategists, and bots. Today, AI tools like ChatGPT can generate thousands of comments or talking points in minutes. This scalability means that false narratives can spread faster and appear more authentic, making it harder for ordinary users to tell what’s real and what’s AI-generated.
Thankfully, OpenAI was able to detect and shut down the accounts involved. However, as AI models become more advanced, distinguishing between genuine human expression and machine-generated content will become increasingly difficult. This calls for stronger content moderation policies, AI detection tools, and public awareness about how generative AI can be exploited.
In the end, Operation High Five is more than just a banned campaign, it’s a warning. AI can empower truth and creativity, but in the wrong hands, it can just as easily be weaponized to distort democracy and manipulate minds. As technology continues to evolve, so must our vigilance in ensuring that AI remains a force for information, not disinformation.
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