Marvel-style algorithm? Chinese firm's AI could flag critics before they speak

The company, Geedge Networks, reportedly aims to use AI to analyse vast amounts of personal data, including internet usage, telecommunications records and location information, to build behavioural profiles of citizens and identify those deemed a potential threat to authorities.

The reported project has drawn comparisons to predictive surveillance systems depicted in science fiction films, where algorithms analyse personal data to forecast future behaviour.

AI to predict potential dissent

According to researchers at Vanderbilt University's Institute of National Security, Geedge's efforts go beyond conventional online monitoring.

The company first began developing behavioural profiles based on telecommunications, social media activity and location data in 2024. Researchers say the goal was not only to categorise individuals and identify sensitive information but also to predict future actions and associations.

"Geedge's research team was doing more than just documenting behavioural patterns. They were trying to predict what citizens might do next and with whom," Brett V. Benson, a political science professor at Vanderbilt, told The New York Times.

Researchers who reviewed the leaked documents said the company appeared to be attempting to connect people's physical movements with their online behaviour, including the content they consume, such as films, books and other digital media.

Concerns over expanding surveillance

Experts warned that the technology could significantly expand the reach of state surveillance by combining mass data collection with advanced AI tools.

"This is what happens when mass surveillance meets AI. Without checks and balances, what China is doing to its own citizens is a preview of what becomes possible anywhere these tools go unchecked," Brett J. Goldstein, director of the Wicked Problems Lab at Vanderbilt's Institute of National Security, told the newspaper.

The reported development comes amid growing global debate over the use of artificial intelligence by governments for surveillance, public security and social control.

Chip restrictions may have slowed progress

The report said Geedge's work may have been slowed by US export controls imposed during former President Joe Biden's administration, which restricted China's access to advanced American-designed AI chips.

However, recent policy changes could ease some of those constraints.

According to the report, US officials have indicated that China may gain access to a more advanced version of Nvidia processors following recent discussions between Washington and Beijing.

The company has not publicly detailed the project, and it remains unclear how close the technology is to deployment.