India elections: Meta to launch Elections Operations Centre and address AI-generated content issues

In preparation for the upcoming general elections in India, Meta has announced the activation of an India-specific Elections Operations Centre. This initiative aims to identify and mitigate potential threats across its platforms – Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, to prevent the spread of AI-generated fake or manipulated content.

Meta’s focus is on limiting misinformation, removing voter interference, and enhancing transparency to ensure free and fair elections. The company is committed to using new technologies like GenAI and collaborating with industry stakeholders to combat deceptive AI content through the Tech Accord.

With an expanding network of third-party fact-checkers in India and investments in consumer awareness initiatives, Meta now has 11 fact-check partners covering 15 languages. They have 15,000 content reviewers across platforms reviewing content in over 70 languages, including 20 Indian languages.

In collaboration with the Election Commission of India through the Voluntary Code of Ethics, Meta has a high priority channel for the Commission to flag unlawful content. Additionally, the company now requires advertisers globally to disclose the use of AI or digital methods in creating or altering political or social issue ads.

WhatsApp will continue to restrict the forwarding of messages ahead of elections to curb the spread of misinformation. Meta’s efforts aim to ensure a safe and transparent digital environment during the upcoming elections in India, supporting the democratic process.

–IANS
na/uk