Social media, forums, and messaging channels are potent tools, but they can also become weapons when used for malicious purposes.
One of the most significant risks for any company today is the spread of fake news about the company,. and we’re not just talking about large corporations; any brand can fall victim to a disinformation campaign.
But how do you know if your company is being used to spread false content? How can you detect if your brand image is being manipulated to deceive the public, damage your reputation, or even influence consumer or investment decisions?
Detecting fake news targeting companies or those who use brands to create confusion is not a simple task. It requires constant focus, a global perspective, and tools that enable timely action. For example, Kartos, the solution for Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) by Enthec.
Kartos allows companies to monitor their digital exposure in real time, detecting everything from data breaches to Spear Phishing,malicious mentions, impersonations, or fake content involving the brand. Its value lies not only in its technical analysis but also in its ability to alert and provide helpful context for quick and accurate action.
What is fake news, and why should you be concerned as a business?
The fake news is not just harmless rumors. In a business context, they can have serious consequences. The news doesn’t have to be credible; it just needs to be circulating.
A viral tweet, a dubious blog post, or a mention on a high-traffic forum can be enough to generate distrust, damage your brand image, or alter the behavior of your customers and partners.
You may be interested in→ Brand Protection: Strategies to Prevent Fraudulent Use.
Fake news as a tool to damage companies
In many cases, these campaigns are not accidental. They can be driven by competitors, disgruntled former employees, ideological groups, or even anonymous users seeking attention.
There are also cases in which disinformation serves an economic objective, such as causing a drop in stock market value, boycotting a product, or influencing a public tender.
How to detect if your brand is being used to spread misinformation?
It’s not always obvious. Sometimes, disinformation doesn’t attack directly, but uses your name or logo in manipulated contextsto give credence to other people’s hoaxes. Here are some warning signs:
Sudden increase in negative mentions
If your brand starts appearing in negative conversations for no apparent reason, it could be a sign. Tools like Kartos enable the detection of these fluctuations in real time.
Viral campaigns with dubious content
A viral video or tweet that involves your brand and generates controversy should be analyzed as soon as possible, especially if it lacks a clear source or contains false information.
Unauthorized use of your logo or visual identity
One of the most common ways fake news harms companies is through visual impersonation, where fake news or advertisements are created using legitimate logos to confuse users.
Fake pages or profiles on social networks
The appearance of accounts with names similar to yours, sharing toxic content or misinformation, is a clear warning sign.
How fake news affects a company
The impact can vary depending on the sector, the size of the company, or the nature of the campaign, but some common effects include:
Impact on reputation
Even if the news is proven to be false, the fingerprint remains.. Many users only see the headline, not the correction.
Loss of customers or partners
A well-orchestrated campaign can generate distrust among customers or suppliers, affecting agreements, sales, or future negotiations.
Legal or financial risk
.Fake news can harm companies or brands, and it can also influence stock market prices, public tenders, or internal audits.
What can you do if you detect fake news about your company?
It’s not enough to deny in a statement. The response must be fast, coordinated, and constant.. Here are some key steps:
Act quickly, but with data
Avoid responding impulsively. First, verify the source and scope. Tools such as Kartos help you identify the root of the content and its spread.
Contact platforms or media
If the content is hosted on a social network, blog, or other media, you can request its removal for defamation or identity theft purposes.
Issue a clear public response
Sometimes it’s a good idea to publish that the news is fake through official channels, clarifying the misunderstanding and providing verified data.
Use the legal team when necessary
If the campaign has caused real damage or is a coordinated action, consider taking legal action for defamation or unfair competition.
How can Kartos by Enthec help you?
Kartos is a solution developed by Enthec, designed for companies that understand that protecting their digital brand is no longer optional. . Through automated cyber surveillance processes, Kartos detects:
- Malicious mentions of your brand in open sources and on the deep web.
- False or manipulative content involving your brand, products, or representatives.
- Orchestrated campaigns that seek to affect your reputation or digital presence.
By offering a base approach focused on CTEM (Continuous Threat Exposure Management), Kartos enables continuous monitoring, making it ideal for anticipating these risks and acting before the situation gets out of control.
Worried about how your company is mentioned online? Discover how Kartos can help you safeguard your brand.
The fake news in companies is a growing threat in a digital environment where viral misinformation often supersedes the truth. The most important thing is to know how to detect them promptly and act effectively.
Today, taking care of your brand isn’t just a matter of marketing or communications; it’s a comprehensive approach that encompasses all aspects of your business. It’s a strategic necessity. And having solutions like Kartos can help you maintain your reputation in a world where misinformation spreads faster than the truth.
Do you want to protect your business from fake news and other digital threats? Discover more about Kartos by Enthec and start managing your digital presence today.