Speaking at the 40th Media Innovation Network (MINDS) conference in Vienna, President Alexander Van der Bellen issued a warning regarding the escalating risks associated with disinformation fueled by artificial intelligence (AI). The president illustrated the threat using his own experience, recounting an AI-generated video falsely depicting him endorsing a cryptocurrency investment platform, which he confirmed he never did. Van der Bellen highlighted that modern technology allows virtually anyone to create misleading content, capable of generating compromising images or impersonating public figures.
While he noted that the specific forgery he encountered was identifiable—due to a dialect mismatch—he cautioned that technological advancement means such deepfakes could soon become indistinguishable from reality. In response, the president stressed the critical role of fact-checking agencies, describing them as essential, independent sources of verified information. He argued that a liberal democracy requires a shared understanding of objective facts versus mere opinion.
Furthermore, Van der Bellen addressed global trends, warning that authoritarian regimes frequently attempt to control information flow and suppress truth. He cited examples of governments limiting free speech and attacking sources of credible reporting. Despite these efforts, he maintained that the truth ultimately prevails.
He concluded by calling for enhanced media literacy, robust support for independent journalism, and the active defense of democratic values against manipulative forces.
Topics: #president #about #risks
