Tag: misinformation

Literacy remains a critical area of progress and concern across Africa. The continent has seen significant gains in literacy over the past two decades, yet much still needs to be done.

In an era where borders are no longer physical, South Africa is drawn into a new kind of conflict. This conflict is not fought with tanks and missiles. Instead, it is waged with lines of code and silent intrusions. From local municipalities to national ministries, government systems face relentless attack. The digital battlefield is here. Cyberspace has become the next frontier of conflict.

A new report highlights ethics and digital transformation as key drivers of Africa’s evolving Public Relations (PR) industry. The African Public Relations Association (APRA), celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, partnered with the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) to release its latest annual research.

The often-cited and widely disputed claim from a 2015 Microsoft report, that today’s consumers have the attention span of a goldfish, may lack scientific credibility. Still, it remains a compelling metaphor for the fragmented nature of modern attention. Add to that the erosion of trust caused by fake news, exaggerated claims and constant digital noise, and it becomes clear why traditional sales strategies are losing ground.

From TikTok to Instagram, South Africans are increasingly exposed to posts claiming to offer financial tips. However, many blur the line between education and exploitation. As misinformation spreads, financial advisers have a clear opportunity: step in with the credibility, structure and ethics that the public is missing.

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being weaponised by cybercriminals, the question of whether we can effectively combat AI threats with more AI is not just a technical inquiry, but a pressing global concern. AI-generated cyberattacks, such as deepfake technology and automated hacking attempts, have created a cybersecurity arms race.

We are warning against misinformation that distorts global perceptions. This follows US President Donald Trump’s Executive Order suspending foreign aid to South Africa. He also proposed resettlement for Afrikaner farmers.

In 2025, the business world will transform rapidly due to exciting advancements in technology. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will lead this charge, introducing groundbreaking trends that redefine IT strategies.

Artificial intelligence (AI) risks for children encompass privacy concerns, over-trust, misinformation and psychological effects, highlighting the need for careful oversight. It is challenging to maximise AI’s benefits for children’s education and growth while ensuring their privacy, healthy development and well-being.

Legislative frameworks for artificial intelligence (AI) highlights the critical need for regulations to ensure ethical and responsible AI development. AI adoption has increased significantly in recent years. In 2018, companies using AI allocated only 5% of their digital budgets to it.