AI, Misinformation, and Fake News: A Literature Review of Ethical and Technical Approaches

The extremely widespread use of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the landscape of information dissemination, presenting both challenges and opportunities in the battle against fake news. This paper explores the dual role of AI in the creation and detection of misinformation within social media platforms. We examine how AI-driven tools, while enabling the rapid spread of fake news, also offer innovative solutions for its identification and mitigation. Utilizing a systematic literature review, the study highlights the complexities of AI applications in a socio-technical context, emphasizing the need for robust ethical guidelines and transparent algorithms to ensure the integrity of information. We propose a multidimensional approach that combines technological advancements with enhanced media literacy and rigorous fact-checking mechanisms to effectively counter misinformation. The findings underscore the necessity for collaborative efforts involving governments, technology developers, and the global community to safeguard public discourse in the digital age. This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue on digital media ethics, providing a framework for future strategies to uphold information accuracy and reliability.