How AI and Misinformation are Critical Risks You Need to Address

Event Overview

The rapid proliferation of AI-generated content—ranging from deepfakes and synthetic media to persuasive text—has led to a surge in misinformation, creating unprecedented forms of narrative risk. These evolving risks can mislead public opinion, erode trust, and destabilize institutions if not properly managed. Organizations, governments, and individuals alike must learn how to effectively identify, assess, and mitigate these threats before they escalate.

In this dynamic one-hour webinar, presented by uOttawa PDI and GRI, we will explore how the intersection of AI and misinformation is reshaping the way narratives are formed and disseminated. Discover how AI-driven misinformation influences decision-making, security, and reputational risks. Our expert speaker will provide actionable insights on:

• The ways AI is being used to generate and manipulate narratives.
• How misinterpreted narratives can fuel misunderstanding and conflict.
• The rapid amplification of harmful narratives via social media and digital platforms.
• The dangers of selective or distorted information presentation and its potential to mislead stakeholders.
• How diverging narratives can create confusion and divisiveness among key groups.

This session is designed for professionals in risk management, communications, cybersecurity, public relations, and anyone concerned about the rising importance of narrative risk in today’s digital landscape. By the end of the webinar, you will be better equipped to identify and mitigate the emerging risks posed by AI-generated misinformation.

Event Speakers:

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Josh Richardson

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Josh Richardson is a partner at Governance Risk Global and President of the Governance & Risk Institute. Prior to joining GRG he consulted for the Madison Policy Forum following a 23-year career in the United States Army. Operational assignments around the world with the 75th Ranger Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, and NATO Allied Rapid Reaction Corps included leadership roles from the small unit to enterprise level. He concluded his Army service at the United States Military Academy where he taught International Relations and Counterterrorism and served as the Superintendent’s Director of Strategic Communications. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the United States Military Academy, West Point, and a Master of Arts in International Relations and International Economics from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies by way of the General Wayne A. Downing Scholarship Program. He resides in West Point, New York with his family

Alan McCafferty, Program Director, Cybersecurity

Alan McCafferty is a Senior Business Analyst with 25+ years of progressive experience working with public organizations, not-for-profits, start-ups, and multi-national corporations. Educated in Canada, the USA and Europe in multiple disciplines including Engineering, Business, Risk Management, and Lean 6 Sigma, he is the author of more than 25 white papers and the recipient of the Canada Award for Excellence. During his career, Alan has led the delivery of multi-year $1 billion+, mission critical information technology projects. As a Cyber Security SME, Alan was key in the development of the University of Ottawa Professional Development Institute cyber security program and teaches several of the courses. Alan has successfully completed IT, Security, Process, Threat Risk Assessments (TRA), Privacy Impact Assessments (PIA), health and safety projects for federal government departments, provincial healthcare organizations and national not-for-profit organizations. As a senior consultant, he uses his Lean 6 Sigma skills, along with his risk and security experience to help organizations implement low waste, and effective lean processes in areas such as information security management systems, business continuity, department security plans, quality management systems, health, and safety management systems.