University of Kwazulu-Natal

Ai Driven Disinformation A Framework For Organizational Preparation

Bonisiwe Shabane
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ai driven disinformation a framework for organizational preparation

Edited by: Ludmilla Huntsman, Cognitive Security Alliance, United States Reviewed by: J. D. Opdyke, DataMineit, LLC, United States Hugh Lawson-Tancred, Birkbeck University of London, United Kingdom *Correspondence: Alexander Romanishyn, a.romanishyn@ise-group.org

Received 2025 Jan 31; Accepted 2025 Jun 30; Collection date 2025. The Rise of Misinformation and Its Impact on Organizations The digital age, while connecting the world in unprecedented ways, has also unleashed a torrent of misinformation, often amplified by the very algorithms designed to promote sharing on social media platforms. Events like Brexit, the 2016 US elections, and the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the potent influence of manipulated narratives and "fake news" on public opinion. This phenomenon extends beyond the political sphere, impacting discussions on everything from environmental concerns to technological advancements. The rapid spread of false information online, often fueled by sensationalism and confirmation bias, poses a significant threat to organizations, potentially damaging their reputation, internal culture, and productivity.

False narratives can erode trust among employees, leading to decreased collaboration, increased conflict, and ultimately, a decline in overall performance. The modern information landscape demands proactive strategies to combat misinformation and safeguard organizational health. The Erosion of Trust and the Need for Intervention The proliferation of misinformation creates an environment of distrust, mirroring the dynamics of a financial bank run. Individuals, influenced by false narratives, may react swiftly and negatively towards organizations, impacting brand loyalty and employee morale. This erosion of trust, driven by a "divide-and-conquer" strategy inherent in much of the misinformation spread online, can severely disrupt internal operations.

Surveys reveal widespread concern about fake news in the workplace, with a noticeable increase in associated negative behaviors like criticism, dismissal of ideas, and even outright lying. This atmosphere of suspicion hinders open communication and collaboration, critical elements for organizational success. Trust is the bedrock of a productive and innovative work environment. When employees trust their employers and each other, they are more motivated, engaged, and likely to contribute effectively. Conversely, a lack of trust stifles creativity, impedes decision-making, and ultimately, undermines the organization’s ability to thrive. The human tendency towards sensationalism, coupled with the speed at which information travels online, makes us particularly vulnerable to misinformation.

Studies have shown that false news spreads significantly faster than true news on social media platforms, exploiting our cognitive biases and preference for emotionally charged content. However, this same technology that facilitates the spread of misinformation also offers tools to combat it. Artificial intelligence, particularly in the form of large language models (LLMs), presents a powerful defense against fake news. Unlike humans, AI is not swayed by emotions or biases, offering a more objective approach to information analysis. LLMs can access vast datasets, cross-referencing claims with verified facts and historical data to identify inconsistencies and potential falsehoods. This ability to rapidly process and analyze information makes AI a valuable ally in the fight against misinformation.

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Edited by: Ludmilla Huntsman, Cognitive Security Alliance, United States Reviewed by: J. D. Opdyke, DataMineit, LLC, United States Hugh Lawson-Tancred, Birkbeck University of London, United Kingdom *Correspondence: Alexander Romanishyn, a.romanishyn@ise-group.org

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