Assessing the Application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Detecting Misinformation and Disinformation

Digital platforms have become an increasingly important aspect for society as a source of information. As societies’ reliance on digital information continues to increase, the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation presents new challenges that must be considered. These challenges, ranging from ethical dilemmas to political manipulation, will be analysed to assess the severity of misinformation and disinformation in a digital era. While exploring the formidable obstacles and challenges facing society, this chapter will examine the untapped potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in combating the spread of false information. By drawing on the advancements in these fields, such as natural language processing, pattern recognition and anomaly detection, this chapter will discuss their viability to combat misinformation. Through the analysis of relevant literature, this chapter will provide a holistic overview of the challenges and opportunities in this domain while drawing on relevant case study examples. As digital landscapes evolve, the need for innovative detection techniques will shed light on the advancements that serve as the defence against the increasing threat of misinformation and disinformation. Content analysis methodologies will be examined to reveal how AI interprets content and verifies factual accuracy, providing insight into the evolving strategies designed to combat misinformation. An examination of algorithmic bias and fairness will highlight the ethical imperatives, ensuring that AI models contribute to the preservation of truth without inadvertently amplifying existing biases that many ML models are susceptible to. Furthermore, it will delve into the challenges of explainability and transparency in AI systems, emphasising the need for interpretable models to build user trust. This chapter will then proceed to analyse the future implications, exploring the potential consequences of AI-driven misinformation and disinformation detection systems on society, where ethical considerations must be prioritised, and the evolving legal frameworks necessary for effective data protection. By integrating insights from computer science, social sciences, law, and ethics, this chapter aims to reveal the path forward in safeguarding truth in the era of AI and ML.