Mis/Disinformation: The Skew of Information and Its Impacts on You
Hannah Becker recently published an article in AFCEA’s SIGNAL Magazine titled Mis/Disinformation: The Skew of Information and Its Impacts on You.
In this insightful piece, the authors - Hannah Becker and Trisha Wyman - delve into the widespread effects of false narratives in today’s hyperconnected world. They explain how mis- and disinformation extend beyond politics, influencing individuals, organizations, and even national security. Through historical and modern examples—ranging from Benjamin Franklin’s wartime tactics to deepfake scams targeting financial institutions—the authors illustrate the long-standing and evolving nature of deceptive information. Their analysis underscores how emotional manipulation and cognitive biases make individuals susceptible to falsehoods, often without realizing it.
The article also explores strategies to mitigate these risks, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy, critical thinking, and deliberate decision-making. The authors argue that while no one is immune to the influence of mis/disinformation, individuals can cultivate cognitive resilience by verifying sources, questioning emotionally charged narratives, and engaging in thoughtful analysis. As AI and synthetic media continue to shape the information landscape, these insights serve as a crucial reminder of the role each person plays in combating the spread of deceptive content.
Click here to read the article in SIGNAL Magazine.