Pro-China YouTube Network Used A.I. To Malign U.S., Report Finds

Dec 14, 2023 ·

In recent weeks, YouTube has become a battleground for the spread of pro-Chinese disinformation. The Google-owned video platform is increasingly home to videos promoting Chinese policies and propaganda that are amplified by a network of coordinated accounts.

The videos often attack Western governments and portray China as benevolent. They usually contain themes of Chinese nationalism and patriotism, as well as values like "patriotism, justice, and equality". The videos have been viewed tens of millions of times combined and are shared widely on social platforms.

The Chinese government has long been accused of using online media and social networks to manipulate public opinion around its actions. But the use of YouTube as a tool for spreading pro-China disinformation appears to have accelerated in recent months.

Experts say that these videos are part of a larger disinformation effort that includes an organized network of accounts that are amplifying the content. These accounts appear to be working together to promote the videos and boost their views.

The videos are also being promoted by China-linked Twitter accounts and other influencers who are using their own platforms to spread the messages.

Experts are concerned about the implications of these campaigns, as they could be used to manipulate public opinion on geopolitical issues or domestic matters. It is also possible that these accounts could be used for more nefarious purposes such as spreading misinformation about competitors or manipulating stock prices.

While YouTube has been criticized for not doing enough to combat pro-China disinformation, it has taken steps to address the issue. The platform has removed some of the videos and accounts that were suspected of containing disinformation.

In addition, YouTube has launched an initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of disinformation. The company is encouraging users to report suspicious activity and has increased its efforts to remove problematic content.

Overall, the rise of pro-China disinformation on YouTube is concerning and raises questions about the role of large tech companies in promoting content that may be used to manipulate public opinion. At the same time, YouTube's efforts to combat this type of content show that the platform is taking the issue seriously.