AI Can Trick You-Here is How to Outsmart Misinformation

These days, artificial intelligence (AI) is woven into almost every part of our lives, from the stories that pop up on our news apps to the endless stream of posts on social media.

AI is quietly working behind the scenes. While this technology makes life more convenient, it also means that fake news and misleading information can spread faster than ever before. 

So, how do you keep yourself and the people you care about safe from falling for something that isn’t true? Let’s talk about it.

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Practical Steps to Protect Yourself from Misinformation and Disinformation1. Pause and Question Before SharingIf you see a shocking headline or viral message, take a moment before you hit “share.” Ask yourself: Does this sound too good to be true or too unbelievable to be credible? Who is the source, and do you trust them?

2. Double-Check with Reliable SourcesLook up the story or claim on trusted news websites, reputable fact-checking organisations (like Africa Check or Reuters Fact Check), or even the official social media pages of public figures or agencies. If you can’t verify it elsewhere, it’s best to hold off on sharing.

3. Watch Out for Deepfakes and Fake ScreenshotsWith AI, images and videos can be manipulated to look incredibly real. Watch for odd details: unnatural movements, strange lighting, warped backgrounds, or mismatched audio. If something feels “off,” it’s worth digging deeper.

4. Educate Your CirclesHelp friends and family develop good digital habits. Encourage them to fact-check, be sceptical of forwarded messages, and avoid passing along rumours even if they sound urgent or emotional.

5. Understand Clickbait and Emotional ManipulationHeadlines designed to make you angry, scared, or amazed often play on your emotions to get clicks or shares. If something makes you react strongly, take a breath and look for more context before engaging.

6. Diversify Your News SourcesDon’t rely on just one platform or news outlet. Follow a mix of local, national, and international sources, and be open to multiple viewpoints to avoid being trapped in an “echo chamber.”

7. Report False InformationMost social media platforms let you report fake or misleading content. Use these features to help stop the spread of misinformation in your network.

8. Keep LearningStay curious and update your media literacy skills. There are free online courses and resources on how to spot fake news, understand algorithms, and become a more critical consumer of digital information.