The Global Risks Perception Survey finds that misinformation and disinformation and societal polarization are the two risks for which public awareness and education has the most long-term potential for driving action on risk reduction and preparedness.
Censorship and surveillance is also within the top five risks that could be addressed in this way.
There is an urgent need for comprehensive public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the risks associated with digital spaces, as well as the tools and practices they can use to protect themselves and boost trust in their use of platforms.
For example, citizens should be educated on privacy and security settings for their devices, including two-factor authentication, and app permissions.
Awareness programmes should also cover recognizing phishing attempts, protecting personal data, and securely navigating social media.
Additionally, digital literacy initiatives should help individuals understand the role of algorithms and data in shaping their online experiences, fostering critical thinking to identify and challenge biased or harmful content.
by Rosa Mumanyi
