Prescreening Questions to Ask Online Disinformation Counter-Strategist

Can you describe your experience with identifying and analyzing online disinformation campaigns?

When you're trying to get a grasp of someone's expertise, their personal experience is a great place to start. Ask them to share specific instances where they had to tackle disinformation. This isn't just about what they've done, but about the depth of their understanding and the lessons they've learned along the way.

What methods do you use to monitor social media platforms for disinformation?

The world of social media is vast and constantly evolving. It's like trying to catch fish in a swiftly flowing river – you need the right tools and techniques. Look for answers that detail specific methods, whether they're automated tools, manual monitoring, or a mix of both.

How do you stay current with the evolving tactics used in spreading online disinformation?

Disinformation tactics change faster than fashion trends. To combat it effectively, you need someone who's in tune with the latest developments. Ask how they keep up – whether it's through continuous education, participation in forums, or attending specialized conferences.

Explain your approach to distinguishing between disinformation, misinformation, and legitimate content.

This one's crucial. Not everything false is disinformation; some of it might just be harmless misinformation. Get a sense of their analytical approach and the criteria they use to differentiate between these categories.

What tools and technologies are you proficient in for tracking and countering online disinformation?

The right tools can make all the difference. From social listening platforms to advanced AI algorithms, learn what specific technologies they're comfortable using and how these tools aid in their mission against disinformation.

Describe a successful strategy you've previously implemented to combat disinformation.

Talk is cheap, as they say, so ask for concrete examples. What strategy did they use? What were the results? This will give you a clear picture of their practical expertise and creativity in tackling disinformation.

How do you handle the challenge of countering disinformation without infringing on free speech?

This is a delicate balancing act. You want someone who understands the importance of free speech and can navigate these waters without tipping the boat. Look for nuanced answers that show respect for both combating falsehoods and upholding fundamental rights.

Can you provide an example of a time when you had to quickly respond to a sudden disinformation campaign?

When the proverbial hits the fan, response time is critical. Ask for stories from the trenches. How did they mobilize resources quickly? What steps did they take to mitigate the damage?

How do you collaborate with other stakeholders (e.g., tech companies, government agencies) in tackling disinformation?

Fighting disinformation isn't a one-person job. It's a team sport. Find out their experience with collaboration – be it with tech giants like Google and Facebook or governmental bodies. Their network and ability to work with others can amplify their efforts.

In what ways have your efforts directly impacted the mitigation of online disinformation?

Impact is everything. Not all efforts bear fruit, so ask for specific instances where their work led to a quantifiable reduction in disinformation. Numbers, anecdotes, and tangible results are what you're looking for here.

What approaches do you take to educate the public about recognizing and avoiding disinformation?

You can't fight disinformation alone; public awareness is a powerful tool. Ask about their educational strategies – whether they use workshops, online tutorials, social media campaigns, or other means to inform and empower the public.

How do you evaluate the effectiveness of a disinformation counter strategy?

Any strategy is only as good as its results. Dive into their evaluation process. What metrics do they use? How do they measure success or failure? Continuous improvement is key in this ever-changing battle.

Can you discuss a time when your analysis of disinformation had a significant influence on a decision or policy?

Policy influence is a strong testament to one's expertise. Ask for concrete examples where their insights led to meaningful changes in policy or decision-making. It could be within their organization or on a broader scale.

What role does data analysis play in your strategy to counter online disinformation?

Data is the backbone of any modern disinformation strategy. Enquire about how they use data – from collection and analysis to implementation. The key is not just having data, but knowing how to leverage it effectively.

How do you address the disinformation that spreads through private messaging apps?

Private messaging apps are a whole different ballgame. They're harder to monitor and control. Find out their strategies for tackling this specific challenge, whether it's through digital forensics, cooperation with messaging platforms, or public education initiatives.

What ethical considerations do you believe are important in the fight against disinformation?

The ethical landscape of disinformation is fraught with landmines. Ask about their ethical framework. What principles guide their actions? How do they ensure they aren't overstepping or causing unintended harm?

Can you explain how you prioritize different disinformation threats?

Not all disinformation is created equal. Some threats are more pressing than others. Learn about their prioritization process. What criteria do they use to determine which threats to tackle first?

What international disinformation trends or tactics have you noticed, and how do they influence your work?

Disinformation isn't confined by borders. Global trends can have local impacts. Ask about the international landscape and how global tactics influence their strategies. It provides a bigger picture and a more comprehensive approach.

How would you design a campaign to raise awareness about a specific disinformation threat?

Creativity counts. Dive into how they would craft an awareness campaign. From target audience and messaging to channels and tactics, this question reveals their strategic thinking and ability to mobilize public opinion.

What do you believe are the biggest challenges in countering online disinformation today?

The field is rife with challenges. Ask about their perspective on the biggest hurdles we face today, be it technological, societal, or legislative. Their insights can shine a light on potential areas of improvement and innovation.