China Targets US AI Buildout with Complex Bot Networks and Media Campaigns

China is allegedly using bot networks and state media to shape public opposition to American artificial intelligence infrastructure, according to testimony at a congressional hearing.

Sam Lyman, head of research at the Bitcoin Policy Institute, testified that Beijing presents different messages about AI to domestic and international audiences.

Lyman alleged that Chinese state media promoted arguments against US data centres to American audiences while China subsidises up to half of the energy costs incurred by AI data centres in China.

He also accused a network of US-based nonprofit organisations supported by Shanghai-based businessman Neville Roy Singham of amplifying messages critical of the American technology industry.