China Influence Operations Target US AI Debate, OpenAI Warns

OpenAI has taken action against two covert influence operations originating from China that misused ChatGPT to impact the US AI policy debate, as detailed in their June 2026 threat report. These operations involved creating misleading narratives about AI and trade policy, employing tactics such as using VPNs and posing as American users online.

The first operation focused on claims that AI data centers were increasing electricity prices, while the second aimed to discredit US tariffs and OpenAI itself, using fake social media accounts to spread propaganda. Despite these efforts, OpenAI assessed the campaigns as having limited reach and effectiveness, yet highlighted the importance of vigilance against foreign influence in AI discussions.