The Cyber Security Authority has pledged to work with tech providers to mitigate the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Director General Dr. Albert Antwi Boasiako warned that the country is likely to witness AI-powered misinformation campaigns as the elections approach, due to the rapid adoption of digitalization.
Speaking at the West African Regional CSIRTS Symposium, Dr. Boasiako said, “The malicious act is a rational activity. Therefore, cyber attack, a malicious act as seen in elections, there will be a pattern of cyber attacks. We anticipate a lot more disinformation and misinformation forms of attacks happening. Processes are changing. Criminals are innovating their process, and we’re likely to see AI-powered disinformation and misinformation campaigns.”
The Authority is working with tech providers, including Facebook, Twitter, and others, to detect and prevent these issues. Dr. Boasiako emphasized the importance of citizens being aware of the content they consume and encouraged the media to play a responsible role in shaping messaging on their platforms.
“It’s a collective responsibility,” he stressed. “We need to work together to ensure free and fair elections.”
