Research

The adoption of AI in fact verification has grown in recent years, especially with the use of tools such as natural language processing, detection of manipulated content or automated monitoring of social networks. Platforms such as Newtral, Maldita.es, EFE Verifica, AFP Factual España and VerificaRTVE use AI to detect disinformation, identify altered images or streamline the transcription of political statements.  

However, the study reveals that, although professionals consider transparency essential for the credibility of the sector, the explicit mention of AI in fact-checking publications is minimal. Although these platforms recognize that AI is part of their verification process, they often do not specify which tools they use or to what extent they intervene in the detection of disinformation. This generates an information gap, since the analysis of the platforms’ websites shows that AI mentions are scarce or non-existent.

In addition, the study highlights the lack of clear guidelines on the transparency of the use of AI in fact-checking. There is no standardized protocol to inform the public about the role of AI in these processes, which generates doubts about its application and the possible lack of human supervision in certain tasks. Organizations such as the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) have not yet established specific rules in this area, leaving each platform to decide how to communicate it.

The conclusions of the research point to the need to establish protocols and good practices that regulate transparency in the use of AI within the sector. In this way, public confidence could be maintained and an ethical application of these technologies guaranteed. The study opens a new line of debate on the future of fact verification in the AI era and the importance of effective transparency to maintain the credibility of platforms.

To read the full article and access the detailed results, check it here.