Attorney General Kwame Raoul has released a 2024 Voter Misinformation Guide to assist Illinois voters in identifying and reporting election misinformation generated by artificial intelligence (AI). This content, which can include misleading videos, images, or audio impersonating people or candidates, aims to confuse or dissuade voters.
Raoul emphasized the importance of accurate information for voters. “The right to vote is one of the most fundamental rights we have as Americans, and voters deserve to have accurate information about the important choices they make on their ballots,” he stated. He urged Illinoisans to be vigilant against election misinformation and fraud as the general election approaches. “Don’t let scammers steal your vote, your identity or your hard-earned dollars. Use reliable sources to educate yourself on your ballot choices and make your plan to vote.”
The guide highlights that AI-generated misinformation spreads through social media platforms, robocalls, text messages, and chatbots. Examples include fake AI-generated audio of political candidates intended to deter voters and pictures falsely depicting celebrities endorsing or condemning candidates.
To help voters spot AI-generated content, Raoul’s guide offers several tips:
- Know basic election information in Illinois and have a voting plan. Consult the Illinois State Board of Elections (SBE) and local boards for details on voting.
- Verify election information with official sources rather than relying on unsolicited phone calls or text messages.
- Avoid using chatbots or search engine AI for election-related questions due to potential inaccuracies.
- Be cautious of emotionally charged images, audio, videos, and articles online. Check if legitimate news outlets report such content.
- Report suspected deepfakes on social media platforms and inaccurate election process information to the SBE.
- Do not share unverified content online; even liking it can spread false information.
- Be wary of AI disclaimers or detecting software as they are often unreliable.
- Avoid clicking links in unsolicited communications about elections unless verified independently.
- Register to vote through trusted sources like the SBE’s Online Voter Application.
On Election Day, Raoul's office will provide monitors at polling places to ensure voter rights are protected. Voters who experience violations should report them to his office or local law enforcement.
For more details, visit Attorney General Raoul’s website.