The Utilization of Artificial Intelligence in Media Misinformation Through Social Media During Wartime and Countermeasure Mechanisms (The Israeli-Gaza War 2023 as a model) - A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in media misinformation related to the Israeli-Gaza War (2023) across social media platforms. Employing a qualitative analytical approach, the research was conducted through in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of twenty academics and professionals in the fields of media and AI. The findings revealed that Facebook was the most prominent platform for deploying AI applications in media misinformation, utilizing technologies such as Deepfakes for video and image forgery, ChatGPT, and Natural Language Processing (NLP) models. This utilization, coupled with a lack of public awareness regarding AI technologies, resulted in difficulties in distinguishing between truth and falsehood, contributing to biased public opinion and a decline in international support for the Palestinian cause. A key technical challenge identified in combating AI-driven media misinformation is the rapid advancement of generative AI technologies. Gatekeeping Theory was utilized in the study due to its relevance and suitability to the research topic. The study proposed strategies to counter this misinformation, including debunking Israeli claims and enhancing public and elite awareness of AI technologies and media misinformation tactics.