Taiwan’s National Security Bureau reports that China is increasingly employing generative artificial intelligence (AI) to intensify disinformation campaigns against the island. The goal, according to Taipei, is to “divide” the Taiwanese public and undermine the island’s unity.

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The Rising Threat of “Cognitive Warfare”

Taiwan has long accused China of escalating military drills, trade sanctions, and influence operations to assert its sovereignty claims over the democratically governed island. Taiwan firmly rejects these claims.

The security bureau’s report to parliament revealed that over half a million “controversial messages” have been detected this year alone, primarily circulating on social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok. These messages often target sensitive moments, such as President Lai Ching-te’s recent speech on China or TSMC’s announcements of new U.S. investments.

The report labels these efforts as “cognitive warfare,” explicitly designed “to create division among our society.” It highlights the growing concern that “As the application of AI technology becomes more widespread and mature, it has also been found that the Chinese Communist Party has been using AI tools to assist in the generation and dissemination of controversial messages.”

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Beyond Disinformation: “Grey-Zone” Tactics Escalate

In addition to AI-powered disinformation, the report notes a significant increase in China’s “grey-zone” tactics against Taiwan. This includes a sharp rise in Chinese coast guard incursions into Taiwan’s waters and the presence of air balloons in its airspace. These actions force Taiwan to deploy its own forces in response, reportedly depleting its resources.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, who maintains that only the people of Taiwan can decide their future, has previously referred to China as a “foreign hostile force.” China has consistently refused to renounce the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control.