Prova de Doutoramento do aluno João Pedro Assunção Varela da Costa
Área: Engenharia Informática e de Computadores
Título da Tese: Managing Fake News as a Digital Risk
Local da Prova: Anfiteatro PA-3 (Piso -1 do Pavilhão de Matemática) do IST
Data: 29/05/2026
Hora: 14h00
Abstract: Fake news has emerged as a significant digital risk, challenging the integrity of information ecosystems and the decision-making processes fundamental to both communities and corporations. The rapid proliferation of misinformation and disinformation via digital platforms has exposed organisations to complex risks regarding maintaining trust, safeguarding reputational capital, and ensuring operational resilience. This thesis diverges from traditional socio-political analyses by positioning fake news within a formal risk management framework and demonstrates the necessity for such an approach in contemporary digital environments. A robust framework is developed that integrates established risk management principles with innovative conceptual models and advanced decision-support systems. Underpinned by design science research, the study undertakes a comprehensive literature review to identify the mechanisms through which fake news can undermine trust, distort public perception, and compromise the sustainability of operations. The resulting models are validated through stakeholder consultations to maximise real-world applicability, resilience, and robustness across varying scenarios. Moreover, the research introduces and evaluates novel strategies for detecting, assessing, and mitigating fake news risk, drawing on interdisciplinary insights from enterprise architecture, information systems, risk governance, and decision science. Both theoretical modelling and practical intervention inform the thesis, highlighting the importance of layered, holistic responses that combine technological, organisational, and policy-based countermeasures. Dedicated tools and analytical frameworks are advanced to identify, quantify, and proactively manage the central risk factors associated with the phenomena. These contributions are designed to guide practitioners and institutional stakeholders in implementing effective risk mitigation strategies. Ultimately, the thesis's findings advance academic understanding of digital risk and information reliability while offering actionable solutions to support decision-makers navigating the evolving hazards of information disorder. By effectively linking conceptual innovation to real-world application, this study strengthens management and scholarly insight into the risks posed by fake news, fostering resilient decision-making and preserving information integrity within contemporary organisations and society.