The Times · 14 Oct, 13:03 · Technology briefing

UK’s disinformation defence centre ‘will not get new powers’

The UK’s disinformation defence centre established to counter online falsehoods will not receive expanded statutory powers.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

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The UK’s disinformation defence centre established to counter online falsehoods will not receive expanded statutory powers. This decision limits the body’s ability to enforce actions against malicious actors spreading misinformation. Consequently, the responsibility for identifying and mitigating disinformation risks remains largely with individual organisations rather than being centrally mandated by law. Professionals must therefore prepare for a landscape where defensive strategies rely on internal capability rather than external regulatory enforcement, requiring heightened vigilance in corporate communications and digital safety protocols.

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Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This development shifts the burden of disinformation defence squarely onto your organisation. You must proactively build resilience rather than relying on state intervention. Skills in digital literacy, crisis communication, and ethical AI oversight will rise significantly in value. Leaders in marketing, public relations, and compliance should pay close attention to emerging threats. A smart professional would immediately audit their organisation’s current response protocols. Upskill in crisis management and cyber security to identify misinformation vectors early. Develop clear internal guidelines for verifying information sources. By mastering these areas, you position yourself as a critical asset in protecting your company’s reputation and operational integrity against sophisticated digital threats.

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