Taiwan Strengthens Push Against TikTok Deepfakes Amid Rising Political Concerns

Taipei, Taiwan — December 25, 2024: In a bold move to counter the growing threat of deepfake videos and foreign influence, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lawmaker Lin Dai-hua has proposed significant amendments to Taiwan’s digital regulations. These measures specifically target platforms like TikTok, which are increasingly seen as vehicles for disinformation and political interference. The proposal has sparked widespread debate in Taiwan, particularly given its geopolitical tensions with China.

Amending the Anti-Infiltration Act: A Focus on National Security

Lin Dai-hua’s proposed amendments to the Anti-Infiltration Act aim to compel foreign-based digital platforms deemed potential national security threats to establish local offices in Taiwan. This regulatory step would ensure that platforms like TikTok operate within Taiwan’s jurisdiction, making them more accountable to local laws.

Under the proposed amendments, platforms failing to meet these requirements within a stipulated deadline could face severe consequences, including restricted access. Taiwan’s security agencies would be empowered to instruct internet service providers to block non-compliant platforms. This approach aligns Taiwan’s digital governance policies with those in Europe and the United States, reflecting a global trend toward stricter oversight of foreign platforms.

Deepfake Controversy Targets DPP Lawmakers:

The urgency of these measures has been highlighted by the recent circulation of deepfake videos targeting prominent DPP politicians. One such video falsely portrayed DPP lawmaker Ker Chien-ming criticizing his own party, claiming, “Taiwan in the hands of the DPP is without hope.” The altered footage, originally from a Taiwan Television news segment, was a clear attempt to mislead the public and damage the party’s credibility.

Another deepfake video featured both Ker and fellow DPP lawmaker Wang Yi-chuan, alongside simplified Chinese characters, insinuating possible connections to mainland China. These videos were reported to the Taipei District Prosecutors Office by the affected lawmakers, who condemned the disinformation campaign as a deliberate effort by foreign actors to manipulate Taiwan’s political landscape.

Accusations of Chinese Interference:

Ker Chien-ming directly accused China of orchestrating these disinformation campaigns, leveraging platforms like TikTok to sway public opinion in Taiwan. “These deepfakes are part of a broader strategy by those with ulterior motives to interfere in Taiwan’s democratic processes,” he asserted. Wang Yi-chuan further revealed that screenshots of the videos had been circulating in group chats linked to the Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan’s primary opposition party, which advocates closer ties with Beijing.

The KMT’s association with these group chats has fueled speculation about the party’s role in amplifying disinformation. While Beijing routinely labels the DPP as “Taiwan independence separatists,” the deepfake videos represent a new frontier in the battle over Taiwan’s political narrative.

Protecting Taiwan’s Democracy:

Both Ker and Wang have urged the public to refrain from sharing these videos, emphasizing the harm they could inflict on Taiwan’s democratic society. They expressed confidence in the Taiwanese public’s ability to discern truth from fabrication, but underscored the need for vigilance against such tactics.

Lin Dai-hua’s proposal for stricter oversight reflects growing concerns about the vulnerabilities in Taiwan’s digital and political landscapes. By targeting platforms like TikTok, the DPP aims to create a more secure and transparent digital environment that safeguards Taiwan’s democratic integrity.

Aligning with Global Standards:

The proposed regulations echo global trends in digital governance, where countries are increasingly taking measures to regulate foreign platforms accused of spreading disinformation. By aligning with policies in Europe and the United States, Taiwan seeks to fortify its defenses against external threats, particularly as tensions with China continue to escalate.

Lin emphasized that these measures are not about censorship but about protecting Taiwan’s sovereignty and democratic values. “We must ensure that foreign platforms operating in Taiwan adhere to our laws and do not become tools for external interference,” she stated.

Conclusion:

As Taiwan navigates an increasingly complex political and digital landscape, the proposed amendments to the Anti-Infiltration Act represent a decisive step toward greater national security and democratic resilience. With disinformation campaigns and deepfake technology becoming more sophisticated, Taiwan’s proactive approach could serve as a model for other democracies facing similar challenges. By tightening regulations on platforms like TikTok, Taiwan aims to preserve the integrity of its political processes and protect its citizens from the harmful effects of digital manipulation.