March 25, 2025
Tech News
A recent disinformation campaign has emerged, with fake media sites spreading false claims about Ukraine’s president allegedly paying Western journalists to smear former US President Donald Trump. These Russian-linked portals are designed to mimic legitimate media, undermining public trust amid ongoing efforts to resolve the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Moreover, websites like Clear Story News have been flagged by researchers for digitally altering documents to bolster misleading stories. Similar tactics were used to disseminate a false narrative regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky financing anti-Trump journalism, exemplifying how the credibility of established media is exploited to disseminate misinformation.
In an interconnected vein, the increasing use of generative artificial intelligence tools to create believable yet fake content has contributed to the chaos of disinformation. Researchers indicated that false reports are now often dressed up to resemble authentic media narratives, including manipulated videos and images that look convincingly real, intensifying the challenge in discerning fact from fiction.
Transitioning to lighter news, the iconic Twitter bird sign has sold for an impressive nearly US$35,000 at auction. This emblem, previously adorning the social media giant’s San Francisco headquarters, marked a significant piece of tech history, reflecting the legacy of Twitter before its rebranding to X under Elon Musk’s leadership.
Meanwhile, gamers are increasingly captivated by the photo mode features in titles such as Infinity Nikki and Assassin’s Creed Shadows. This modern gaming staple allows players to pause and capture breathtaking in-game moments, blending artistry with interactive entertainment in ways that enhance the overall gaming experience and personal creativity.
Tech Explained
Disinformation – This term refers to deliberately false information aimed at misleading the audience. In the context of the news, disinformation campaigns have used fake media outlets to manipulate public perception and opinion regarding sensitive geopolitical issues, particularly concerning Ukraine.
Fake News – Defined as misinformation disguised as news, fake news often aims to provoke an emotional response or influence public discourse. The reports about Ukraine’s president illustrate how fake news can masquerade as legitimate journalism to promote a specific agenda.
Generative AI – This technology, which can produce new content based on learned patterns from existing data, is increasingly employed in creating misleading articles and visuals that mirror legitimate media. Its rise represents a significant shift toward the ease of fabricating believable but false narratives.
Photo Mode – A gaming feature that allows players to pause the game and compose screenshots as if acting like professional photographers. The enthusiasm for photo mode in games signifies a blend of gaming and artistry, enabling creative expression through virtual environments.
Auction – An event where items are sold to the highest bidder. The auction of Twitter’s bird sign exemplifies how tech memorabilia has become a collectible category, attracting significant bids from buyers interested in owning a piece of tech history.
