THE integrity of our elections faces unprecedented challenges this 2025. The rise of AI and deepfake technology presents new threats that require proactive measures to ensure the security and fairness of our democratic processes.
At Microsoft, we are committed to protecting the polls and supporting political parties and campaigns with robust cybersecurity resources.
AI and deepfake threats
As AI technology advances, so does the sophistication of deepfakes — manipulated media that can convincingly alter appearances and voices. This poses significant risks to the democratic process, from disseminating misleading information to undermining trust in the electoral system. In response, we have developed a comprehensive approach to combat these threats, leveraging our expertise and resources to uphold election integrity.
Microsoft’s election commitments
In alignment with our broader election commitments, we are taking concrete steps to protect elections globally. Our initiatives include providing cybersecurity resources tailored for political parties and campaigns, ensuring they are equipped to defend against cyber threats. Additionally, we offer educational materials to raise awareness and enhance preparedness among stakeholders. Partnering with media organizations such as CNN to promote accurate information and debunk misinformation is another crucial aspect of our strategy. In the Philippines, we’ve equipped the Commission on Elections (Comelec) with AccountGuard, strengthening our commitment to safeguarding democracy through initiatives like these. Our efforts, including partnerships formed during the US Trade Mission, exemplify our dedication to protecting democratic processes.
Combating deepfakes
Deepfakes present a unique challenge that requires a multi-faceted strategy. Drawing inspiration from our work in Canada, we are implementing best practices to combat deepfakes and ensure that voters have access to reliable information. We utilize advanced AI tools to detect and mitigate deepfake content, collaborate with experts and policymakers to develop standards and regulations that address the misuse of AI, and empower citizens with the knowledge to identify and report suspicious media. Our goal is to create a resilient electoral environment where technology is a force for good, supporting transparency and accountability.
Comprehensive approaches to election integrity
To combat the rising threat of deepfakes and AI in elections, we provide extensive training sessions to political parties. These sessions explain what deepfakes are, demonstrate the difficulty in identifying them, and offer tools for protection. Our Democracy Forward initiative aims to preserve, protect, and advance democracy by combating the deceptive use of AI. This involves promoting a healthy information ecosystem, open and secure democratic processes, and corporate civic responsibility.
Key strategies, tools
To safeguard democratic institutions, we offer various tools and services, including indexed media repositories, Defender Office 365, and secure content management for credentialing. Our AccountGuard service adds an extra layer of protection for high-risk organizations, while our Content Integrity Tools help establish authenticity in political communications. We also provide a Deepfake Reporting Tool to address deceptive AI-generated media that may affect electoral campaigns.
Global collaboration, support
Our efforts are global. We engage with social media channels, supporters, allies, opponents, and news outlets to manage and counteract misinformation effectively. The Election Communications Hub enables election administration officials and political parties to share pressing security concerns with us, ensuring a coordinated approach to election security.
As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, protecting the integrity of our elections is more important than ever. At Microsoft, we are dedicated to leading the charge in this endeavor, using our innovative solutions and collaborative spirit to ensure that democracy thrives. Together, we can build a future where every vote counts, and every voice is heard.
Peter Maquera is the chief executive officer for the Philippines at Microsoft, the world’s largest vendor of computer software and a leading provider of cloud computing services, video games, computer and gaming hardware, search and other online services.