Disinformation

"These things are as endemic to Russia as vodka, the ballet, and long winters." In this episode, host Paul Brandus discusses the pervasive issue of disinformation, particularly focusing on Russian efforts and the impact on global security. He interviews Nina Jankowicz, founder of the American Sunlight Project, who emphasizes the importance of building societal resilience and promoting information literacy to combat false narratives. The conversation delves into the role of government in addressing disinformation and the upcoming challenges in the 2024 election. Meredith Wilson from Emergent Risk International provides insights on the evolving landscape of disinformation, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations and high-quality information sources in business decision-making. [00:01:18] Russian information warfare efforts [00:07:21] American Sunlight Project. [00:12:30] Media literacy education in Finland. [00:18:01] Russian weaponizing societal divisions. [00:26:15] People defending dishonesty from power. [00:33:04] Challenges of disinformation and AI. [00:40:15] Importance of quality information. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Nina Jankowicz, and the NATO-Stratcom Center in Latvia, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Journalism is the only profession that is protected by the First Amendment... but private equity and hedge funds have been involved with disastrous consequences." In this episode, host Paul Brandus delves into the issue of the decline of local print journalism and news deserts, focusing on the impact of hedge funds and private equity firms acquiring newspapers. Guest Margot Susca, an assistant professor of journalism, sheds light on how these financial entities prioritize profit over responsible journalism, leading to the decline of local news coverage. There is also a correlation between news deserts, voter apathy, and susceptibility to disinformation, particularly in marginalized communities. The episode also explores the alarming spread of disinformation and Islamophobia in India, where the government's control over media exacerbates the dissemination of false narratives. Along with insights from Pearl D'Souza on the challenges faced by Indian citizens in accessing unbiased and factual information amidst a landscape dominated by propaganda and disinformation. [00:01:40] Hedge funds and journalism industry. [00:07:06] Hedge fund ownership in journalism. [00:10:38] Hedge funds impact on journalism. [00:13:28] Pink Slime journalism. [00:17:45] Misinformation in immigrant communities. [00:24:12] Crackdown on media and dissent. [00:30:10] Islamophobia in political narratives. [00:32:25] Islamophobia and population growth. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Margot Susca and Pearl D'Souza , our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael Dealoia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"You have a direct pipeline, particularly with social media and with individuals. Essentially, all you're doing is figuring out who you want to target" In this podcast episode, host Paul Brandus discusses the growing concerns surrounding the upcoming presidential election, focusing on the threats posed by disinformation, false narratives, and foreign interference. He interviews Marek Posard, a military sociologist, and Brady Roberts, the COO of Emergent Risk International, to delve into the potential perfect storm of risks facing the election infrastructure. The challenges of combating disinformation, the impact of AI on spreading false narratives, and the need for critical thinking and media literacy education is needed to empower individuals to discern fact from fiction. Brandus underscores the importance of proactive measures, scenario-based planning, and a whole-government approach to safeguard against the influence of disinformation in the upcoming election. [00:02:36] A potential perfect storm. [00:05:06] Election system vulnerabilities. [00:08:56] Adversaries exploiting division in elections. [00:14:09] Impact of artificial intelligence. [00:17:17] Deepfakes and election influence. [00:19:35] Election falsehoods in narrow-margin states. [00:25:54] Education on critical thinking. [00:31:02] Teaching media literacy to youth. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Marek Posard and Brady Roberts, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Open-source intelligence is a critical way of helping not just governments, but the private sector form judgments about critical issues." This episode is the second in a series covering Open Source Intelligence (OSINT). Here, we focus on Bellingcat's investigative work into the 2014 shooting down of a passenger jet in Eastern Ukraine, the interest of the U.S. Department of Defense in OSINT, and the nuances of using investigations over intelligence. Guest Noemi Macero and host Paul Brandus discuss the impact of OSINT on forming judgments for governments and the private sector, and how uncovering open-source methods can enhance traditional journalism and combat disinformation. [00:03:36] Democratization of intelligence analysis. [00:04:39] Open source data investigation. [00:12:03] OSINT-related tools. [00:16:39] Balancing speed and accuracy. [00:19:26] Handling fast-moving incidents. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Noemi Macero , our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The silence in these fields is that of a tomb, like sorrow and loss have isolated it from the war around it." In this episode, host Paul Brandus delves into the world of open source intelligence (OSINT), He discusses its importance in verifying information, especially in the digital era. The episode explores various tools within OSINT, such as social media, geospatial intelligence, and blockchain analytics. Additionally, he discusses the potential risks and pitfalls of over-reliance on OSINT, and the need for careful verification processes. [00:04:09] Open-source intelligence in investigations. [00:10:02] YouTube as Google Street View. [00:19:22] Open source intelligence verification. [00:26:27] Geospatial intelligence. [00:36:16] Disinformation campaigns by nation states. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Noemi Maciero, our Sound Designer and Editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and Executive Producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The United States government works at a great disadvantage because we tell the truth." In this episode, we refocus our sights on Russia's information warfare efforts in Africa, particularly spreading false claims about U.S. biological testing surrounding COVID-19. The Africa Initiative, backed by Russian intelligence, is highlighted as the source of these conspiracy theories. Despite limited traction, the disinformation campaign poses risks to Western health programs and humanitarian efforts in Africa. The episode also delves into Russia's broader presence in Africa, including military support and mining interests. Strategies to counter Russian disinformation include media literacy initiatives, fact-checking organizations, and promoting Western economic investments and democratic values in the region and the complex dynamics of information warfare and geopolitical competition in Africa. [00:02:06] Russia's information warfare efforts. [00:07:28] Russian disinformation in Africa. [00:11:06] Russian disinformation in Africa. [00:14:16] The disinformation angle. [00:18:22] Russian military efforts in Africa. [00:20:09] Countering Russian disinformation tactics. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Cameron Evers , our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It's a kind of information that we find particularly appealing that people looking to fool us will use, but it can lead to innocent spreading" Host Paul Brandus explores the concept of truth bias and its implications in today's society with guests Daniel Simons and Christopher Chabris, authors of the book "Nobody's Fool, Why We Get Taken In and What We Can Do About It." They discuss how our innate trust in familiar sources can make us vulnerable to misinformation and the importance of skepticism in evaluating information. The conversation delves into the challenges of focusing on only what is directly in front of us, potentially overlooking crucial context. Meredith Wilson, CEO of Emergent Risk International, joins the discussion to provide insights on how trust and skepticism play a crucial role in navigating the complex landscape of information consumption. The episode highlights the need for critical thinking and awareness in an age where information is constantly at our fingertips. [00:02:06] Truth bias and deception. [00:05:47] Calibrating trust and skepticism. [00:09:50] Familiarity and trust on social media. [00:12:25] Focusing on selective information. [00:17:07] Trust in societal systems. [00:21:29] Familiarity and trust in information. [00:24:27] Human nature and information consumption. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Daniel Simons and Christopher Chabris, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael Dealoia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"This information is polluting the entire ecosystem under which we operate." In this episode of "Disinformation," Paul Brandus delves into the pressing issue of information pollution in the 21st century. With the rise of social media and artificial intelligence, discerning between truth, misinformation, and deliberate falsehoods has become increasingly challenging. We also discuss how information pollution exacerbates existing systemic risks like global conflict and climate change, making it a critical issue to address for progress and solutions in the modern world. [00:01:26] Information pollution. [00:06:08] Disinformation and its elements. [00:09:30] Information pollution and swatting. [00:15:29] Companies navigating information dangers. [00:17:50] Cybersecurity and company vulnerabilities. [00:22:17] Swatting and disinformation. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Alan Jagolinzer, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The problem in America isn't so much what people don't know, the problem is what people think they know that just ain't so" In this episode of Disinformation, Paul Brandus discusses the prevalence of false campaign narratives and disinformation in elections around the world. He highlights the upcoming presidential election in the United States and the numerous elections taking place in other countries, including Taiwan. We delve into China's extensive use of disinformation campaigns targeting Taiwan, with the goal of sowing discontent and mistrust among the Taiwanese people. This episode also explores the effectiveness of these efforts and their potential impact on Taiwan's relationship with the United States. The conversation then shifts to the 2024 U.S. election, the radicalization of the population, the rapid development of technology, and the lack of oversight and regulation in the information environment. [00:03:23] Disinformation in Taiwan. [00:04:48] China's influence in Taiwan. [00:09:25] Misinformation in Taiwan elections. [00:13:35] Oversight of social media platforms. [00:18:27] AI-generated disinformation in elections. [00:22:45] Social media and micro-targeting. [00:26:58] Educating people about media. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Dr. Simona Grano, CEO of Emergent Risk Meredith Wilson, sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The most common threat that the dark web poses for a disinformation point of view, however, is ...the fact that many marketplaces on the dark web host tools which can be used for disinformation. Manufacturing it, spreading it, monitoring it, so on and so forth." On this episode, host Paul Brandus explores the hidden parts of the Internet known as the deep web and the dark web. The deep web refers to the unindexed parts of the Internet, such as databases and private networks, while the dark web is a subset of the deep web that requires specific software and authorization to access. The dark web provides anonymity and heavy encryption, making it attractive for those seeking to manufacture and distribute false information, or disinformation. The dark web has been used to spread conspiracy theories and false information during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the sale of fake vaccines and forged health certificates. It also facilitates criminal scams, such as pump and dump schemes and ransomware attacks. Tune in to learn about the involvement of state actors like Russia and China in spreading disinformation on the dark web, as well as the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in combating these activities. [00:04:20] Dark web and disinformation. [00:11:28] Russian and Chinese dark web activities. [00:15:55] Policing the dark web. [00:20:18] The dark web and ransomware attacks. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Neil Thompson, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"This is an ongoing struggle, and perhaps the struggle of our time." In this episode of Disinformation, Paul Brandus discusses the recent election in the Netherlands and the rise of the islamophobic and anti-immigration Geert Wilders and his Freedom Party. The Russians, known for their active measures, have been supporting Wilders, further highlighting their efforts to influence opinion in the West. Thea Gioe, a former CIA officer, joins the discussion and explains how migration issues are being exploited by various groups, including nationalist groups seeking to regain power. [00:03:28] Migration in Sweden. [00:05:07] Islamic immigration and crime statistics. [00:10:08] Migration in Europe's perception. [00:14:10] Fear of migrants' impact. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Thea Gioe, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we celebrate our holiday break here on Disinformation, we wanted to re-share our episode from season 1 titled "A House Divided - Political Division & Disinformation's Role" - on this episode, we discuss the growing political divide in the U.S. and how disinformation fuels the partisan fire. Americans see each other in increasingly tribalistic terms — one side or the other seems, at times, a tinderbox for violence. Adversaries like Russia, China and others are only too happy to pile on. Featuring John Cohen, former acting under secretary for intelligence and the counterterrorism coordinator, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Special thanks to our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening, we'll be back soon with more original programming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I can filter out four or five star quality hotels and restaurants today. We can't do that with our personal information." In this episode of the award-winning podcast series "Disinformation," host Paul Brandus discusses the need for safety standards in the information we consume. While there are regulations in place for the safety of our food, water, and air, there are none for the content we see just as often. Meredith Wilson, CEO of Emergent Risk International, delves into the challenge of discerning what is real in an era of misinformation. Tune in to this thought-provoking conversation on the need for safety standards in the content we engage with. [00:01:54] Synthetic media and deepfakes. [00:05:20] Regulating information and free speech. [00:08:15] Social media and disinformation. [00:15:07] Trust and information integrity. [00:16:33] Information quality standards. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Meredith Wilson, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The federal government is stepping up its efforts to counter foreign disinformation." In this episode, we explore the lesser-known agencies within the United States Intelligence Community. With the rise of false information and disinformation as a major threat, the federal government is increasing its efforts to counter foreign disinformation. The Director of National Intelligence discusses the establishment of a farm line influence center and their work in understanding the plans and intentions of key actors in this space, including China, Russia, and Iran. We also hear from Brady Roberts, COO of Emergent Risk International, and Andrea Leibman, an analyst with the Psychological Defense Agency of Sweden. Join us as we delve into the complex world of intelligence agencies and the battle against disinformation. [00:02:11] China, Russia, Iran. [00:08:01] Russian influence on Sweden. [00:10:33] Deplatforming and outing actors. [00:13:19] Government body for investigating disinformation. [00:19:41] Government organization and enforcement. [00:21:55] CISA Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Brady Roberts and Andrea Leibman, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"... truth is the first casualty of war." In all times, but especially in wartime, we are challenged to separate fact from fiction. On this special episode of Disinformation, we break from our miniseries on combating disinformation to discuss the recent surprise attack on Israel by Hamas, the evolving nature of information dissemination, and the importance of verifying sources in a fast-moving conflict. We also interview Rafi Mendelson of Cyabra a company that works to combat disinformation in both this conflict and at large. [00:11:33] Disinformation during wartime today. [00:09:04] Fake accounts and false narratives. [00:11:13] State actors and cyberattacks. [00:12:48] Flood of disinformation. [00:16:05] Deceptive Imagery Persuasion. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Meredith Wilson of Emergent Risk International and Rafi Mendelson of Cyabra. Our sound designer and editor is Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Living in a post-fact world is a scary place to be, as we learned during the pandemic, right? People don't believe anything." In part 1 of this 3 part series on combating disinformation, we delve into the world of media literacy, critical thinking, and the battle against disinformation in Europe. Join host Paul Brandus as he explores the challenges faced by countries like Slovakia and Bulgaria, where a lack of media literacy leaves populations vulnerable to false narratives. Discover how NATO and European Union initiatives are working to combat disinformation and protect democratic values, and gain valuable insights into the fight against disinformation in today's "post-fact world". [00:02:59] Russia's footprint in Africa. [00:05:08] Media literacy and manipulation. [00:09:27] NATO's disinformation defense. [00:14:01] The impact of disinformation. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Dominika Hadju and Claudio Lusco. Sound designer and editor is Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"... this is a Doom Loop: authorities screw up, people die, trust is eroded." In this podcast episode, host Paul Brandus discusses the dangerous spread of false narratives during natural disasters and crises. He highlights the devastating impact of Hurricane Adelia on Cedar Key, Florida, and the disinformation that followed, causing confusion and undermining trust in authorities. He also discusses the phenomenon of disinformation during other crises, such as wildfires and hurricanes, including Hurricane Katrina. Just as the erosion of our environment during a climate crisis threatens our physical world, the erosion of faith in public institutions during these events can be just as damaging, and sometimes longer lasting. Brandus and his guests explore the breakdown of communication and trust that occurred during Katrina and how it continues to affect public perception. The episode emphasizes the importance of reliable sources of information and the challenges of navigating the flood of information in a crisis. Social media also plays a role in disseminating both accurate and inaccurate information during emergencies. [00:02:43] Fact-checking and disinformation. [00:05:26] Disinformation during crises. [00:12:57] Communications breakdown during Hurricane Katrina. [00:13:24] Erosion of public trust. [00:18:10] Social media in crisis situations. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Ashley Goosman, founder of Disaster Empire, CEO of Emergent Risk International Meredith Wilson, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"What kind of company, a publicly traded company, doesn't share its most basic financial information with investors? In this episode of Disinformation, host Paul Brandus delves into the infamous case of Enron, a Houston-based energy company that was once a Wall Street darling. Enron manipulated its financial information, misrepresenting its earnings and altering its balance sheet to deceive investors. The host also discusses other cases of financial disinformation, such as WorldCom, Tyco, and Health South, highlighting the destructive power of such deception. He raises questions about the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in detecting and preventing future instances of financial disinformation, particularly in analyzing large amounts of text data, like the 10K filings that companies submit to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). However, concerns exist about the potential risks and unintended consequences of relying solely on AI in financial decision-making, emphasizing the need for human oversight. The episode concludes by reflecting on the challenges of controlling AI-powered disinformation and the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of evolving threats. [00:01:38] Lack of transparency at Enron. [00:07:00] Financial disinformation. [00:12:22] AI and financial disinformation. [00:16:20] AI trading algorithms and risks. Thanks to Professor Craig Lewis of Vanderbilt University for his insights. Sound from CNBC, ABC and C-SPAN. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It creates this sort of feedback loop of Disinformation that's happening all the time there." On this episode of Disinformation, hosts Paul Brandus and Meredith Wilson delve into the concerning rise of disinformation in India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The episode highlights the protests outside the White House during Modi's visit, where opponents accused him of undermining democracy and suppressing freedoms. The transcript reveals that India's ranking in the World Press Freedom Index has plummeted, with the country now ranked 161st out of 180 countries. The hosts discuss how social media and the internet have exacerbated the spread of disinformation, particularly in the context of Hindu-Muslim tensions. They also touch on the alarming prevalence of COVID-19 misinformation in India and the ease with which false narratives can be generated using artificial intelligence. Overall, the episode sheds light on the challenges India faces in combating disinformation and protecting democratic values. [00:01:24] India's declining press freedom [00:05:08] The Indian news "hyper-cycle" [00:12:09] Fake cricket [00:13:43] The ease of generating disinformation in India Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Pearl D'Souza and Kyle Walter. Our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"What is the line where your ability to say what you want stops and your ability to make up things that harm people starts?" In Elon Musk's recent interview with the BBC, he discussed free speech and his vision for the platform to serve as a "digital town square." However, the challenge arises when determining what constitutes misinformation in a divided society where basic facts are contested. The episode explores the concept of disinformation and the concerns surrounding its potential resurgence on Twitter under Musk's ownership as well as on other social media platforms. Join host Paul Brandus as he delves into the complex issue of disinformation in the digital age. [00:02:08] Peddlers of disinformation return. [00:04:52] First Amendment and social media. [00:10:59] Tackling disinformation upstream. [00:12:11] Public education campaigns. [00:16:26] Extending the Pareto Principle to social media. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Meredith Wilson of Emergent Risk International and Ella Irwin for their insights. Our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "Disinformation," host Paul Brandus and analyst Meredith Wilson explore the overwhelming amount of information that bombards us each day. Dr. Daniel Levitin, a cognitive psychologist and author, explains that we are faced with five times more information than ever before, making it difficult to discern what is true and what is not. The rise of social media and tribalism further complicates this issue, as we tend to trust and align with like-minded individuals. [00:00:30] Information overload. [00:06:52] Cyber operations and information operations. [00:09:08] Monitoring social media tools. [00:14:47] Information integrity map. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Bret Schafer and Peter Benzoni of the Alliance for Securing Democracy, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "Disinformation," Paul Brandus explores the extent of Russian influence operations and disinformation efforts beyond just elections and social issues. He discusses the role of the Internet Research Agency, led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, in spreading false narratives. Meredith Wilson, CEO of Emergent Risk International, provides analysis on how the private sector and business community are also targeted by Russian disinformation. Tune in to gain insights into the insidious craft of disinformation and its impact on various sectors. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Thanks to our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In season two of the Disinformation podcast, Paul Brandus discusses the emergence of avatars and false media outlets created by artificial intelligence, blurring the lines between fact and fiction; truth and untruth. He and Meredith Wilson, CEO of Emergent Risk International, discuss how the rapid growth of AI accelerates the possibility of false narratives spreading faster than ever before, and how these false narratives are forms of disinformation. Paul also interviews Jack Stubbs, VP of Intelligence at Graphika, who discusses the discovery of a fake media outlet called Wolf News, which is part of a Chinese state-aligned political influence operation. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Thanks to Jack Stubbs of Graphika, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we're taking time to recap some of our past reporting. Please enjoy this retrospective from our Season 1 episode "News Deserts". Season 2 coming soon! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A look back at some material from our first season – highlighting the growing dangers of disinformation, but also some ideas on how, perhaps, it can be thwarted. Appearing: Meredith Wilson, chief executive officer of Emergent Risk International, and Brady Roberts, ERI's chief operating officer. Season 2 coming soon! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The COVID-19 pandemic has faded, but health experts warm that future pandemics could occur. In terms of disinformation, what lessons have we learned from the past that can be applied to the future? Featuring Center for Countering Digital Hate CEO Imran Ahmed, Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, and CEO of Emergent Risk International Meredith Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Russia may be losing the public opinion battle in North America and Europe, but it has plenty of support elsewhere. Featuring Thea Gioe, Director of Training, Emergent Risk International; Meredith Wilson, Chief Executive Officer, Emergent Risk International. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Disinformation — like reports of a White House bomb blast — can move billions of dollars on Wall Street. Or it can snarl your morning commute. And don't think you're immune to such trickery. Featuring Meredith Wilson, CEO of Emergent Risk International, Jimmy Peng, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the National University of Singapore, and Jorie Craig, Head of Digital Integrity for the Institute of Strategic Dialogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How to stamp out—or at least dilute—the power and danger posed by disinformation? We'll go over the numerous ideas on the subject. Featuring Clare Melford, Chief Executive Officer of Global Disinformation Index, Megan Marelli, Editorial Director for Meedan, and Meredith Wilson, Chief Executive Officer, Emergent Risk International Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The disappearance of local newspapers around the United States over the past 20 years has created so-called “news deserts” - information vacuums that are being filled by peddlers of demagoguery and disinformation. Featuring the journalist who coined the phrase “pink slime” journalism Ryan Zickgraf , former Knight Chair in Journalism and Digital Media Economics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Penny Muse Abernathy, and Meredith Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Emergent Risk International. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

His invasion of Ukraine one year ago floundered from the very beginning. But what about Putin's disinformation efforts? In some parts of the world, his messages appears to have gained - to some degree - traction. Special thanks to CIA Veteran John Sipher, former Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research Ellen McCarthy, special correspondent on Soviet affairs of The Wall Street Journal David Satter, and to Meredith Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Emergent Risk International. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The rise of generative technologies like OpenAI's ChatGPT offer a tantalizing - and perhaps ominous - look at information that can be easily curated and packaged into distributable false narratives. Even more powerful iterations of AI are just around the corner. Special thanks to Dr. Bruce Schneier, Lecturer in Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School, and Fellow at Harvard's Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society; Dr. David Yoffie, Professor of International Business Administration at Harvard Business School; Meredith Wilson, chief executive officer, Emergent Risk International. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many Americans—influenced by political leaders and even some health providers—chose to downplay or ignore science-based recommendations from infectious-disease experts to get vaccinated, wear masks, and practice physical distancing. At the same time, unproven, even “dangerous anti-science beliefs and behaviors” spread, gaining traction with some. As a result, notes Scientific American, “more people have died in the U.S. from COVID-19 than in any other country, and our nation has one of the highest per capita death rates in the world.” Featuring Dr. Seema Yasmin, Director of Research and Education, Stanford University Health Communication Initiative; John Gregory, Health Editor for NewsGuard, and Meredith Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Emergent Risk International Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the second anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Capitol, we look at the government's need to recalibrate its approach to domestic terrorism. But a revamping of basic American institutions is needed as well - featuring Dr. David Gioe, Associate Professor of History at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Director of Studies for the Cambridge Security Initiative and co-convener of its International Security and Intelligence program. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Americans see each other in increasingly tribalistic terms — one side or the other, and the nation seems, at times, a tinderbox for violence. Adversaries (or perhaps enemies) like Russia, China and others are only too happy to pile on. Featuring John Cohen, former acting under secretary for intelligence and the counterterrorism coordinator, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We were told decades ago of television's immense power to do good—or to rip at the fabric of our democracy. Thanks to disinformation, the same holds true today for the internet and social media. Special thanks to analyst Meredith Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Emergent Risk International, Counter-terrorism expert John Cohen, and former CIA officer Cindy Otis, author of “True or False." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of just three people in American history to be both Secretary of Defense and Director of the Central Intelligence Agency - Leon Panetta shares his views on Russia, Vladimir Putin, China, disinformation, and his worries for the survival of the United States in an age of division and lies. Analyst Meredith Wilson also weighs in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What lessons have social media firms learned from the 2020 election — and what are they doing as the 2022 midterm election looms? Analyst Meredith Wilson - the chief executive officer of Emergent Risk International - and guest Katie Harbath, a technology executive, chief executive officer of Anchor Change and former director of public policy at Facebook, weigh in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The immense power and reach of social media and the internet can act as accelerants for disinformation. Paul's guests include Meredith Wilson, chief executive officer of Emergent Risk International and ERI's Brady Roberts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disinformation played a critical role during the Cold War, a half-century struggle between Washington and Moscow. In this episode, host Paul Brandus speaks with Meredith Wilson, CEO of Emergent Risk International, Paul Kolbe, a veteran CIA officer who spent years working behind the Iron Curtain, and intelligence expert and historian Calder Walton. A co-production of Evergreen and Emergent Risk International . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disinformation played a huge role in winning the greatest conflict of the second World War. Host Paul Brandus explores the guille behind D-Day, Midway, and other key battles and moments that led to Allied success in WWII. Special guests: Paul Reid (Winston Churchill biographer), Craig Symonds (historian emeritus, U.S. Naval Academy), Ernest Tavares (U.S. Air Force Lt. Col., ret.), Meredith Wilson (CEO, Emergent Risk International) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices