Ever wondered why a lie can spread faster than the truth? Tune in for an insightful look at disinformation and how we can fight one of the most pressing challenges facing our digital world.
12 May 2025
Online disinformation feels like a constant, overwhelming force, sometimes with all-too-real impacts, as illustrated by events like the Pizzagate conspiracy theory going as far back as 2016. Almost a decade later, why are we still so quick to believe and share all kinds of news and conspiracy theories that are not just untrue, but can even have tangible, harmful consequences?
In this episode of Unlocked 403, host Becks sits down with Jakub Šimko, a lead researcher at the Kempelen Institute of Intelligent Technologies (KInIT), to explore the question of human susceptibility to false narratives and the complex interplay between social media platforms and fundamental human psychology that helps fuel the rapid spread of false information.
How exactly do falsehoods gain traction and viral reach? Why are our brains wired in ways that make us vulnerable to believing and spreading things we shouldn’t? Which kinds of topics attract the most attention, and how are the tactics in disinformation playbooks evolving?
The conversation also pivots to potential solutions and the question of whether AI can effectively counter disinformation or if it simply adds another layer of complexity. Speaking of AI, this episode features a quiz where you can test your own critical thinking skills and see if you can tell deepfakes apart from real images, video, and audio. Tune in also for some practical advice that will come in handy when navigating the complex information landscape online.
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