How Can Multi‐Criteria Portfolio Decision Analysis Help Mitigate Mis/Disinformation?

ABSTRACT

In this paper, we examine and illustrate the relevance of multi‐criteria portfolio decision analysis as an approach to addressing mis/disinformation risks. After summarizing representative applications of these methods, we draw on the framework for societal resilience developed in the Finnish COVID‐19 Science to Panel to elaborate on the range of capabilities that can be leveraged to mitigate mis/disinformation, for example, by maintaining alertness, implementing risk management actions, and interacting with stakeholders to promote awareness. We then present a numerical case study that illustrates how multi‐criteria portfolio decision analysis can be combined with probabilistic approaches for modeling voting behavior and the spread of mis/disinformation to identify cost‐efficient strategies consisting of combinations of risk management actions. We conclude by discussing some of the challenges posed by mis/disinformation.