The Department of Defense has awarded a contract to Accrete AI, a New York-based artificial intelligence company, to develop software that can detect and counteract disinformation on social media platforms. The CEO of Accrete AI claims that the software will be able to predict and neutralize harmful disinformation. However, concerns have been raised about the software’s ability to discriminate and observe freedom of speech. The company aims to combat speech from “disgruntled employees” and others who spread disinformation. This announcement comes at a time when the EU has implemented the Digital Services Act, which imposes fines for noncompliance with online speech monitoring. A court order has also restricted the US government’s contact with Big Tech companies amid allegations of government ties to censorship.
