Disinformation for SMEs

Aston University’s Centre for Cyber Security Innovation (CSI) delivered Disinformation for SMEs: How to Spot, Protect and Respond as part of the Cyber Clinic programme, funded through the West Midlands Innovation Programme (WMIP) 3.0 Flexible Innovation Fund and delivered in collaboration with TechWM.

The workshop supported small and medium-sized businesses in understanding the growing risks associated with misinformation, disinformation and manipulated online content. It explored how false narratives, fake reviews, AI-generated media and deepfakes can damage organisational reputation, weaken customer confidence and undermine trust.

Through practical guidance, expert insight, discussion and real-world examples, attendees learned how to recognise misleading content, assess potential risks and respond more confidently. The session also encouraged SMEs to consider practical measures for protecting their online presence and strengthening their wider digital resilience.