The online aftermath of the July 13, 2024 assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump serves as an object lesson regarding how manipulated media has the potential to mislead and disorient internet users following breaking news events. This piece illustrates how AI tools can influence breaking news events and heighten confusion, particularly in cases where audiences are highly engaged. This is evidenced by social media users who attempted to use AI chatbots to glean information about the shooting without understanding that chatbots are not intended to serve as breaking news sources. This confusion is also exploitable, for example, GAI audio claiming to be of Elon Musk discussing the shooting was used to promote a crypto scam. The confusion also led to users questioning the credibility of a leaked phone call between Robert F. Kennedy Jr and Trump.
