The Current
Can you tell online fact from fiction in this election?
Apr 7, 2025
Angus Bridgman, Director at the Media Ecosystem Observatory and a misinformation expert, dives deep into the chaos of online misinformation surrounding elections. He unpacks alarming trends in disinformation campaigns and highlights the dangers posed by foreign interference from countries like China and Russia. Bridgman also discusses the rising role of AI in generating misleading content, warning against the sophisticated impact of deep fakes. He emphasizes the need for vigilance and critical evaluation of news sources as Canadians navigate this politically charged landscape.
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Quick takeaways
- Disinformation specifically aims to mislead the public for political objectives, posing a significant threat to democratic processes during elections.
- The rise of social media influencers complicates the information landscape, as many followers seek news from unverified sources, amplifying potential misinformation.
Deep dives
The Threat of Disinformation in Elections
Disinformation poses a significant risk to democratic processes, especially during election campaigns. Experts express deep concern over its potential to sway public opinion and alter electoral outcomes, thereby threatening the very foundation of democracy. The distinctions between misinformation, disinformation, and information manipulation are crucial, with disinformation being specifically aimed at misleading the public for political objectives. Strategies like using bots and paid influencers highlight the organized efforts to create an illusion of public sentiment that may not accurately reflect reality.
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