Countering online identity theft and fake information

In today’s digital age, the prevalence of online identity theft and the proliferation of fake information pose pressing challenges to individuals, organisations, and governments worldwide. As technology continually evolves, so do the tactics employed by malicious actors, leading to increasingly sophisticated methods of stealing personal information and disseminating false narratives. 

Online identity theft has surged as personal and financial information becomes more digitized. Criminals exploit weaknesses in cybersecurity, targeting individuals and enterprises alike to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data. Current trends indicate a rise in phishing attacks, data breaches, and the use of the dark web for the trading of stolen identities.

The spread of fake information undermines the trust in digital communications and can have severe societal ramifications. The rise of social media platforms and the ease with which false information can be generated and spread have amplified these challenges.

The European Union has positioned itself at the forefront of global efforts to enhance security online and counter disinformation through robust research and innovation initiatives. The Horizon Europe framework and other EU-funded and national programs are pivotal in fostering collaboration among Member States, academic institutions, and industry leaders to develop advanced technologies and strategic policies.

This workshop aims to engage stakeholders from various sectors to discuss and share best practices, identify gaps in current approaches, and foster innovative solutions. Through panel discussions and interactive sessions, participants will contribute to shaping a collaborative roadmap for tackling online identity theft and fake information, aligned with the EU’s commitment to a secure digital landscape. This workshop seeks to enhance our collective understanding and fortify our resilience against these ever-evolving challenges in cyberspace.