Taiwan Faces Surge in Chinese Disinformation Ahead of Local Elections

• •Chinese disinformation in Taiwan rose by 48% in 2026, totaling over 2.5 million items.
• •AI technology is being leveraged by China to manipulate voter perceptions and influence elections.
• •Taiwan's government is urged to enhance media literacy and develop AI content filtering systems.

Taiwan's National Security Bureau reported a 48% increase in Chinese disinformation, totaling over 2.5 million items in the first nine months of 2026. This content primarily targets energy, food security, and defense policy, aiming to influence the upcoming local elections. The disinformation campaign utilizes AI technology to manipulate information and voter perceptions. Reports indicate that China is employing tactics such as content farms, AI-generated videos, and fake accounts to spread misinformation. The Taiwanese government has urged the public to enhance media literacy and develop AI content filtering systems to combat these efforts. The Democratic Progressive Party has also called for expert analysis on Beijing's tactics and the need for stronger safeguards against election interference. Cyberattacks from China on Taiwanese agencies have surged, averaging 2.58 million daily in 2026, indicating a broader strategy of influence and intimidation.