In an era where disinformation campaigns are increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, researchers are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and counteract these threats. While AI has been exploited to amplify false narratives, it is now also being harnessed to identify and mitigate the spread of disinformation.
Disinformation, distinct from misinformation, involves the deliberate creation and dissemination of false information to deceive and manipulate public opinion. A notable example occurred in October 2024, when a fabricated video surfaced online, falsely depicting a Pennsylvania election worker destroying mail-in ballots marked for Donald Trump. The video quickly went viral on platforms like X and Facebook, garnering millions of views before the FBI traced it back to a Russian influence operation. Such incidents highlight the potency of disinformation in shaping political discourse and sowing societal discord.
To combat this, researchers at institutions like Florida International University’s Cognition, Narrative, and Culture Lab are developing AI tools capable of analyzing the narrative structures of disinformation campaigns. These tools delve beyond surface-level language, examining the storytelling elements, timelines, and cultural references within content to identify inconsistencies and potential manipulation. By understanding the mechanics of weaponized storytelling, AI can flag content that deviates from authentic narratives.
The integration of AI in this context serves a dual purpose: it not only aids in the detection of disinformation but also enhances the speed and accuracy of identifying such content. As disinformation tactics evolve, leveraging AI becomes essential in maintaining the integrity of information and protecting democratic processes.
Source:-
Source:- The Economic Times
