Global Internet Freedom Declines, Aided by AI

Global internet freedom declined for a thirteenth consecutive year in 2023, partially as a result of AI being used to sow disinformation and enhance content censorship, according to a new report from U.S.-based nonprofit Freedom House. The 2023 Freedom on the Net report, published on Oct. 4, assesses the state of internet freedom in 70 countries through a comprehensive methodology examining obstacles to access, limits on content, and violations of user rights. The report found that many countries--including Myanmar, the Philippines, Costa Rica--have drastically restricted online freedoms this year. China has the lowest levels of internet freedom for the ninth consecutive year, the report said. Freedom House, established in 1941, publishes Freedom in the World and Freedom on the Net annually.