"In Japan, generative AI takes fake election news to new levels," 7 February

[Unofficial description by Business & Human Rights Centre]

As more Japanese voters rely on social media for political news and policy discussion, the online space is increasingly being overwhelmed by misleading and fabricated content. This surge is driven by how easily generative AI can produce realistic-looking videos and images, combined with the chance for anyone to earn quick money. Major platforms such as YouTube and TikTok reward accounts that attract large numbers of views, further encouraging the spread of sensational material.

A 2024 study found that 51.5% of people believed false news to be true. A professor at the International University of Japan has called on social media companies to strengthen their monitoring of misinformation and to consider suspending payments to users that spread sensational information, especially during election periods.