Sadiq Khan Warns of AI-Fueled ‘Outrage Economy’ Spreading Disinformation

London’s Mayor Warns of Digital Deception “Epidemic” Targeting the Capital

Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has issued a stark warning that London is becoming the “canary in the coalmine” for a global wave of digital deception, as social media platforms profit from what he calls a “division dividend.”

Addressing the Cambridge Disinformation Summit on Thursday, Khan presented alarming research from City Hall detailing how coordinated networks—ranging from foreign state actors to domestic far-right groups—are using artificial intelligence to portray London as a “fallen city” despite contradictory evidence.

The Greater London Authority-commissioned analysis reveals a calculated campaign to undermine the capital’s global reputation. According to the report, which examined online trends between March 2024 and March 2026, there has been a 200% surge in digital content describing London as a dangerous, lawless metropolis in terminal decline. The research also identified a 350% increase in migration-related narratives specifically targeting London.

What makes these trends particularly concerning is that they have accelerated despite London’s per capita homicide rate reaching its lowest level on record, highlighting the growing disconnect between online narratives and statistical reality.

“As extremists erode trust in our city and its institutions, it gets easier and easier for them to twist online anger into offline violence,” Mayor Khan warned. “The outrage economy is eating away at the basic bonds of trust that hold our societies together.”

The report highlights bizarre examples of what Khan termed “AI slop”—fabricated content designed to provoke outrage. These include fake TikTok videos showing grimy, taxpayer-funded waterparks supposedly built in Croydon and arcade machines filled with knives. The research uncovered a sophisticated network operating from Vietnam that deployed AI-generated imagery and media impersonation techniques, reaching over one million followers.

Khan emphasized that these digital fabrications have tangible consequences. He cited a recent incident where a retiree, radicalized by online conspiracy theories, used explosives to destroy an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) camera—one of the monitoring devices used in London’s controversial traffic pollution reduction scheme.

The mayor’s criticism extended to major technology companies, accusing platforms of creating an “outrage economy” where opaque algorithms prioritize engagement over truthful content. The business model of social media giants, Khan suggested, fundamentally rewards content that generates strong emotional responses regardless of its accuracy.

In response to these challenges, the mayor has sent formal letters to Meta, TikTok, Google, and X (formerly Twitter), demanding significant reforms. His proposals include ending algorithmic systems designed to maximize engagement at any cost, providing vetted researchers with access to platform data to track coordinated “inauthentic behavior,” and establishing a new central government body specifically tasked with protecting UK democracy.

Khan also called for enhanced powers for Ofcom, Britain’s communications regulator, to effectively penalize non-compliant tech companies—in his words, to “hit companies where it hurts.”

The major platforms have responded to the accusations with assurances about their existing safeguards. TikTok and Meta both stated they maintain specialized teams dedicated to dismantling coordinated disinformation networks and removing harmful content. Meanwhile, Telegram defended its position by stating it supports “peaceful free speech” while removing direct incitements to violence.

The findings come amid growing international concern about the role of social media in democratic processes, public safety, and social cohesion. London’s position as a global financial center and multicultural hub makes it particularly vulnerable to reputation damage from coordinated disinformation campaigns.

Khan concluded his address by emphasizing that while he welcomes legitimate criticism of his administration and policies, the fight against industrial-scale disinformation represents a defining challenge for London’s future generations and democratic institutions worldwide.

The mayor’s intervention highlights growing tensions between technology companies and government officials over the regulation of digital spaces and the responsibilities of platform owners in moderating content that may undermine public trust or safety.