- Solution area:Organisations ,Processes ,Quality assurance and certification ,Social participation and engagement ,Technological innovation ,
- Аdministrative level:State ,Federation ,
- Solution process:Digitization and technology ,Public service ,Science and research ,
- Technology:Artificial Intelligence ,Augmented / Virtual Reality ,Automation and robotics ,Information technology ,Networks ,
Disinformation
Protecting democracy with cutting-edge media forensics
In an era where disinformation and hybrid threats increasingly shake our societies, combating false narratives has become essential. For about 10 years – triggered by events such as Brexit, the 2016 U.S. election, and the Cambridge Analytica scandal – there has been a deliberate spread of false information by authoritarian actors. These actors exploit all media formats, from manipulated audio recordings and deepfake videos to falsified image and text content, to spread hate, radicalization, and anti-democratic messages. The Center for Digital Safety & Security at the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology has specialized in the research and development of evidence-based tools for uncovering disinformation. Building on technical pilot projects, including those within the KIRAS security research program, and continuous research, AIT Center has developed numerous innovative solutions to effectively detect, analyze, and counter disinformation campaigns.
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Quick Facts
How it works
The so-called Media Intelligence Platform of AIT operates multimodally: it detects manipulated audio, image, and video content, deepfakes, and fake profiles. In addition, AI-based text analysis modules identify false narratives in texts containing content such as hate speech, radicalization, and anti-democratic statements. Trend and network analyses reveal dissemination channels and key actors, while visual dashboards present complex data clearly. These tools support authorities, media organizations, and fact-checking teams in identifying potential impacts of disinformation in real time and responding effectively. At the same time, educational measures and media literacy initiatives are implemented to strengthen societal resilience against hybrid threats.
The Big Picture
The Best Practice “AIT Media Intelligence Platform” delivers significant value for democracy, media, and security. By combining advanced AI-powered analysis, comprehensive media forensics, and large-scale data processing, it enables early detection of disinformation campaigns. Authorities, media, and fact-checkers can react faster, evaluate content accurately, and protect citizens effectively. Moreover, the ongoing research at AIT Center for Digital Safety & Security continuously improves strategies and tools to counter hybrid threats and adapt to emerging threat scenarios.
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