tech
Many of the Chinese bots X says posted anti-data-center content had no followers or engagement, a researcher found
A Clemson researcher found that at least 59 of the bots had no followers or engagement and only posted a few times before they were suspended.
TL;DR
- X announced the discovery of a 200,000-strong Chinese bot farm, with some accounts posting disparaging content about data centers to manipulate debate.
- A Clemson University researcher, Darren Linvill, found that at least 59 of these bots had zero engagement and were likely deactivated before gaining followers.
- Linvill described the operation as a 'non-story,' stating that no real humans saw these posts, and the bots posted minimally before suspension.
- The narrative that Chinese propaganda is fueling anti-data center sentiment is promoted by figures in Silicon Valley and investors like Kevin O'Leary.
- Public opposition to data centers is significant, with over 70% of Gallup poll respondents opposing construction in their area, citing energy and water concerns, and a general dislike of AI.
- Politicians have responded to backlash by issuing moratoriums, such as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who recently instructed state bodies to protect residents from infrastructure costs associated with data centers.
- The posts flagged by X mirrored talking points of anti-data center activists regarding electricity bills and grid strain, and were previously referenced by OpenAI regarding Chinese accounts using ChatGPT.
- Researchers express caution, noting that Big Tech companies, including X's owner Elon Musk, have a vested interest in data center development, and their research on foreign propaganda may be politically motivated.