AI Impersonation on social media Analysing Human Characteristics and Ethical Implications

Abstract

This study explores the behavioural, ethical, social, and regulatory implications of AI bots that impersonate humans on social media platforms. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into online communication, AI-driven bots are being deployed to mimic human users, influence opinions, and automate engagement. While these technologies offer efficiency, they also raise serious concerns about misinformation, manipulation, transparency, and digital trust. Using a structured online questionnaire distributed via platforms such as Twitter (X), LinkedIn, and WhatsApp, this research gathered responses from 57 participants. The survey examined user perceptions across multiple dimensions, including their confidence in identifying bots, behavioural changes due to bot exposure, ethical concerns, perceived political influence, and expectations for regulation and education. Findings indicate that while many users feel moderately confident in recognizing bots, they also express reduced trust and engagement when bots are suspected. Ethical concerns particularly around privacy and undisclosed AI interaction were prominent, and users widely supported stronger regulation, transparency tools, and public education initiatives. The study concludes that AI bots pose a significant challenge to online authenticity and democratic discourse and highlights the need for multi-stakeholder governance to ensure safe and ethical deployment of such technologies.