Critical Information Analysis in Relation to the Threat of Disinformation in Digital Media and Ai Hallucinations – an Educational Context

Introduction: The rapid development of the Internet has led to numerous complications in the use of digital information. It has enabled the manipulation of messages, the deliberate creation of false content, and new forms of information distortion driven by advances in artificial intelligence (AI) tools. Research Aim: This article aims to analyze the nature and causes of selected disruptions in digital information (fake news, disinformation, and AI hallucinations). The author emphasizes the importance of critically analyzing media content in the face of false information, a topic explored in the final section of the text. Evidence-based Facts: In recent years, the number of publications on disinformation in digital media has increased significantly. Experts consider it one of the most serious global threats in the digital space. Additionally, there is a growing concern about experiencing AI-generated hallucinations, such as those produced by ChatGPT. Studies available in the literature focus on the essence of disinformation, the reasons for its spread, and its consequences, particularly in limiting critical thinking. Summary: Given the threats posed by false information, special attention should be directed toward children and adolescents, the most active group of Internet users. Awareness of the causes of false information, the dangers of its reception, and ways to counteract the harmful effects of disinformation highlight the need to enhance the digital skills of young people. These competencies enable students to effectively protect themselves from information manipulation and build resilience against propaganda and false narratives.