China's Disinformation Campaign Targets Taiwan's Election

🇨🇳China is engaging in a disinformation campaign to influence Taiwan's presidential elections.

🗳️The surge in disinformation attacks is aimed at casting doubt on Taiwan's relationship with the US.

🌐Taiwan is a flashpoint in US-China relations and the election will determine the future course of Taipei's relationship with Beijing.

🤖Researchers are using artificial intelligence to identify and counter disinformation targeting the election.

📰Taiwan has consistently been the target of foreign disinformation attacks, with thousands of attacks daily.

What is the purpose of China's disinformation campaign?

—The purpose of China's disinformation campaign is to influence Taiwan's presidential elections and manipulate public opinion against the ruling party.

How are researchers countering disinformation attacks?

—Researchers are using artificial intelligence to trawl through social media and identify instances of misleading information. They are working to raise awareness and provide accurate information to the public.

Why is Taiwan a flashpoint in US-China relations?

—Taiwan is a flashpoint because China sees it as part of its territory and has threatened action against any perceived moves by Taiwan to assert independence. The election will determine Taiwan's future relationship with China.

How many disinformation attacks does Taiwan face daily?

—Taiwan faces thousands of disinformation attacks daily, with China mirroring state media narratives and spreading false information to manipulate public opinion.

What is the importance of Taiwan's relationship with the US?

—Taiwan's relationship with the US is crucial as it provides support and security in the face of Chinese aggression. The ruling party has forged tighter ties with the US, while the opposition favors friendlier relations with China.

00:00In July, a false report circulated of a top secret meeting between Taiwan and the US, where US officials allegedly asked Taiwan to develop biological weapons. However, the report was part of a Chinese disinformation campaign targeting Taiwan's elections.

01:08China has never ruled Taiwan but considers it part of its territory. Recent years have seen increased military exercises around Taiwan.

02:48Taiwan receives thousands of disinformation attacks every day, with Beijing trying to influence the election and manipulate public opinion against the ruling party.

03:34China denies interfering in the upcoming election and claims to respect Taiwan's current social system. However, Chinese leaders have vowed to eventually take control of the island.