IN the digital age, social engineering has emerged as a pervasive tactic used to manipulate individuals and exploit their trust. This article explores the concept of social engineering and its significant impact on the proliferation of fake news. By examining a recent example in the Malaysian context, we can better understand the dangers associated with this phenomenon.
Understanding social engineering
Social engineering is a method of psychological manipulation that exploits human behaviour to deceive and gain unauthorised access to information. It involves techniques such as phishing emails, impersonation, and manipulation of emotions to manipulate individuals into divulging sensitive data or taking actions that benefit the attacker.
By leveraging trust, authority, and social dynamics, social engineers effectively manipulate victims into compromising their security or believing false information.
Proliferation of fake news
Fake news refers to intentionally false or misleading information presented as legitimate news. The rise of social media and digital platforms has facilitated the rapid dissemination of fake news, often resulting in significant consequences such as misinformation, public panic, and erosion of trust.
The impact of fake news is particularly pronounced in Malaysia, where social media has become an influential medium for information consumption.
The 14th general election in Malaysia in 2018 is a recent example highlighting the impact of social engineering on fake news. During this period, numerous fake news stories were published with the intent of manipulating public sentiment and influencing the outcome of the election.
False narratives, fabricated images, and misinformation were disseminated across social media platforms, targeting specific communities and amplifying existing societal divisions.
One notable example involved the spread of a manipulated video falsely portraying an opposition candidate engaging in unethical behaviour. This video, which went viral, caused widespread outrage and tarnished the candidate’s reputation.
Subsequently, investigations revealed that the video was intentionally doctored and disseminated by individuals with vested interests.
The impact of this social engineering-driven fake news was significant, influencing public opinion, trust, and ultimately voter decisions. It underscored the need for critical media literacy and raised awareness of the dangers posed by misinformation campaigns driven by social engineering tactics.
Combating social engineering and fake news
Addressing the issue of social engineering and fake news requires collective efforts from individuals, organisations, and policymakers. This includes promoting media literacy, educating the public about the tactics used in social engineering, and encouraging critical thinking skills.
Additionally, social media platforms and technology companies must invest in robust algorithms and moderation systems to identify and curb the spread of fake news.
The intertwining of social engineering and fake news poses a significant threat to society, with recent examples in Malaysia shedding light on the potential consequences.
By understanding the methods employed by social engineers, fostering media literacy, and promoting responsible digital citizenship, we can mitigate the impact of fake news and safeguard the integrity of information in the digital era. – July 27, 2023
The writer is a communications practitioner and generative AI advocate. He is also the brand custodian of West Coast Expressway.