As the 2024 general election approaches, the Cyber Security Authority has committed to collaborating with tech providers to combat the spread of misinformation and disinformation online, particularly on social media platforms.
With the rapid growth of digitalization in the country, the Authority anticipates a surge in AI-driven misinformation campaigns, and is taking proactive measures to mitigate these threats and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
Speaking to the media at the West African Regional Computer Security Incident Respind Team Symposium(CSIRTS) in Accra, Dr. Albert Antwi Boasiako, Director General of the Cyber Security Authority, emphasized his organization’s dedication to minimizing the effects of misinformation and disinformation campaigns, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections.
The Director General of the Cyber Security Authority, Dr. Albert Antwi Boasiako, warned that cyber attacks during elections are often rational and pattern-based, and therefore, his organization anticipates a surge in disinformation and misinformation campaigns, potentially powered by AI. He noted that criminals are constantly innovating their tactics, making it challenging for authorities to keep up.
However, he assured that the Authority is collaborating with tech providers, including social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, which is X and others, to implement measures to detect and prevent these threats as the elections approach.
Dr. Albert Antwi Boasiako urged Ghanaians to be discerning in their media consumption, stressing the importance of media responsibility in promoting free and fair elections. He encouraged citizens to critically evaluate the information they encounter, and appealed to the media to play a constructive role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
