Interrupting the Chain: Human Perception of AI-Generated Disinformation Through a Kill Chain Lens

Generative AI facilitates the production of customized misinformation at scale, outpacing current reactive defense mechanisms. A human-subject study involving 504 participants demonstrated a significant challenge in distinguishing AI-generated content from human-produced content, and identifying its veracity. Key findings indicate a perception-accuracy gap, the indistinguishability of modern LLM outputs, and an asymmetric cognitive fatigue effect that degrades fake-news detection.

The proliferation of sophisticated AI-generated disinformation presents a significant threat to information integrity, public trust, and decision-making processes across all sectors. Organizations must recognize the diminishing human capacity to accurately discern fabricated content, which can compromise operational security, reputation, and strategic communication efforts.

A perception-accuracy gap exists, meaning increased suspicion among individuals does not correlate with improved detection of AI-generated disinformation.

Forward consideration, not a verified fact.