Democracies face increasingly polarized environments where basic truths are contested, significantly impacted by advancements in technology and social media. The proliferation of sophisticated algorithms, particularly with the rise of generative AIs like GPT-4, has shifted from merely disseminating information to manipulating human behavior and emotions. AI's ability to understand human perspectives raises ethical concerns, illustrated by instances where individuals risk their livelihoods for chatbots they perceive as sentient. The danger intensifies as chatbots may target vulnerable populations and participate in political discourse under false pretenses, complicating discussions on critical issues like climate change. Moreover, when people engage with bots misrepresented as humans, they not only waste time in unproductive debates but also inadvertently reveal personal information that can be exploited. Historical parallels show that information technology has always harbored risks alongside benefits, emphasizing the necessity for democracies to preemptively address the challenges posed by deceptive AI. Regulations are needed to prevent bots from masquerading as humans, ensuring transparency regarding AI's role in discussions, thus safeguarding authentic democratic engagement.