Researchers taught AI to write totally believable fake reviews, and the implications are terrifying

[Judi Lynn]

Rob Price
Aug. 29, 2017, 10:28 AM

- Researchers have used AI to develop software that can write extremely believable fake online reviews.

- The tech is a major threat to sites like Yelp and Amazon — and the businesses that rely on them.

- And it hints at a worrying future where AI is capable of writing sophisticated texts, undermining public trust and spreading fake news.


For many people, online reviews are the first port of call when looking for a restaurant and hotel.

More:
http://www.businessinsider.com/researchers-teach-ai-neural-network-write-fake-reviews-fake-news-2017-8?r=UK&IR=T

[delisen]

1. I think the fake reviews are already out there.

I think the review posted cited in the article is actually typical of the fakes already out there:

"I love this place. I went with my brother and we had the vegetarian pasta and it was delicious. The beer was good and the service was amazing. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a great place to go for a great breakfast and a small spot with a great deal."

For example, there is no detail. The only 2 mentions of anything. approaching detail are the words "vegetarian pasta" and "the beer."

Love, amazing, great and great------sounds as though Donald Trump wrote the review.

[Wellstone ruled]

2. One thing we now know is this,

the proliferation of the BOT's seems to be unlimited and unchallenged. Total Hack City.

[ancianita]

3. The chapter on AI is amazing. Highly recommended.