Generative AI–Driven Rumor Propagation Chains and the Dilemma of Legal Governance

Authors

  • Wenjun Wu School of Advanced Institute of Journalism and Society, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai 200082, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/k7ngj392

Keywords:

Generative Artificial Intelligence, Rumor Propagation, Legal Governance, Algorithmic Recommendation Mechanisms.

Abstract

Under the influence of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI), the mechanisms and chains of rumor generation and dissemination have undergone significant transformation. Generative AI not only reduces the cost of rumor fabrication but also enhances the credibility and deceptiveness of false information. Diverse motivational drivers, precision-targeted dissemination, audience psychological mechanisms, and algorithmic recommendation systems collectively accelerate the spread and amplification of AI-generated rumors. However, current legal governance faces multiple dilemmas: the rapid evolution of AI technology has outpaced legislative progress; evidentiary identification is complicated by the technical opacity of AI systems; and cross-border coordination remains fragmented. To address these challenges, this paper argues that: (1) at the technical level, regulatory mechanisms should be developed to strengthen AI content detection, traceability, and authenticity verification; (2) at the societal level, public empowerment should be enhanced through media literacy education to block rumor dissemination; and (3) at the legal level, accountability mechanisms should be refined to optimize the governance of AI-generated rumors.

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Published

06-03-2026

How to Cite

Wu, W. (2026). Generative AI–Driven Rumor Propagation Chains and the Dilemma of Legal Governance. Journal of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, 63, 102-111. https://doi.org/10.54097/k7ngj392