Disinformation 2024. Major Threats According to the Global Risk Report

illustration: bing.com/create

One of the most critical short-term threats highlighted by global risk experts, policymakers, and leaders from various industries is disinformation. It can be used to manipulate public opinion and undermine democracy. With the development of artificial intelligence technology, disinformation is becoming increasingly realistic and difficult to distinguish from the truth. This could lead to greater social polarization, unrest, and even violence.

The primary concern is AI-based disinformation. AI gives creators of false information new, powerful, and unprecedented tools to fuel conflicts and polarize entire societies. According to the report’s authors, false information combined with social unrest will be in the spotlight due to upcoming elections in several major world economies.


- In recent years, we’ve witnessed incredible technological advancements, mainly with artificial intelligence, which supports progress in many areas of our lives and industries, such as medicine and pharmaceuticals. But this development also brings risks, including cyber threats - comments Artur Grześkowiak, CEO of McLennan in Poland and the CEE Region, in an interview with Newseria Biznes. - Moreover, as noted in the "Global Risks Report," the development of technology and AI may also increase the scale of disinformation and disruptions in information access.

The growing popularity of AI and related cyber threats is having a positive impact on the cyber insurance market, which is already experiencing dynamic growth.

- The use of artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and threats. It can support cybersecurity, but on the other hand, if it falls into the hands of hackers, it can also pose a serious threat - emphasizes Małgorzata Splett, FINPRO & Cyber Leader in the Central and Eastern Europe Region, in an interview with Newseria Biznes. - The widespread use of AI in business will only increase demand for such insurance. Additionally, more competitive pricing and extended coverage options offered by insurers will further support its popularity.

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This year’s "Global Risks Report" also points to the rising threat of armed conflicts – experts see it as one of the top five issues over the next two years, and current geopolitical tensions are expected to cause further conflict spread. About two-thirds of global experts predict that within the next decade, a multipolar, fragmented world order will emerge, with medium and major powers competing, setting, and enforcing new rules and norms.

The "Global Risks Report" is prepared by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with Marsh McLennan and Zurich Insurance Group. It analyzes the most serious challenges that may arise over the next decade in the context of rapid technological changes, economic uncertainty, demographics, conflicts, and climate change.