BackAbility to persuade
Risk Domain
Using AI systems to conduct large-scale disinformation campaigns, malicious surveillance, or targeted and sophisticated automated censorship and propaganda, with the aim of manipulating political processes, public opinion, and behavior.
"AI could be used to develop sophisticated tools to manipulate and persuade individuals."(p. 11)
Entity: Who or what caused the harm
Intent: Whether the harm was intentional or accidental
Timing: Whether the risk is pre- or post-deployment
Other risks from Uuk et al. (2025) (60)
Control
7.1 AI pursuing its own goals in conflict with human goals or valuesAI systemIntentionalPost-deployment
Democracy
6.0 Socioeconomic & EnvironmentalOtherOtherOther
Discrimination
1.1 Unfair discrimination and misrepresentationOtherOtherPost-deployment
Economy
6.2 Increased inequality and decline in employment qualityOtherOtherPost-deployment
Environment
6.6 Environmental harmAI systemUnintentionalPost-deployment
Governance
6.5 Governance failureAI systemUnintentionalPost-deployment