Topic: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money laundering and its prevention.
5. ‘Cognitive Hacking’ – a phenomena associated with misinformation, has gained currency over the past few years. What do you understand by it? Explain its impact and suggest steps to prevent it. (250 words)
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The freedom of speech and the freedom of expression are protected rights in most democracies. Balancing the rights of speech with the dangers of disinformation is a challenge for policymakers and regulators.
Key Demand of the question:
To explain the cognitive hacking, the impact of disinformation and ways to prevent it.
Directive:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by defining the term cognitive hacking.
Body:
In the first part, well-coordinated disinformation campaign fills broadcast and social channels with so much false information and noise, thus taking out the system’s oxygen and drowning the truth. Cite relevant statistics from the article.
Next, mention about the impact of the cognitive hacking and misinformation. Societal disharmony, clashes and riots, targeting of minorities, ethnic cleansing and boosting prejudices etc.
Finally, write about the steps that are needed to prevent it it by tackling misinformation. Defense-in-depth, consistent policies and coordinated efforts etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
