Preventing and mitigating risks of rumours during major pandemics in the era of artificial intelligence: A perspective on vulnerability

Abstract The sudden outbreak of a major pandemic often leads to the widespread dissemination of rumours related to the event. The public serves as both disseminators and regulators of rumours. Enhancing the public's capability to defend against rumours and strengthening their resilience are crucial for turning the tide of the pandemic. This study focuses on the rumours surrounding the COVID‐19 event and explores their impact on public vulnerability. Researching rumours during the pandemic reveals that in the era of artificial intelligence, the public's information needs, scepticism towards government resilience, and distrust in social relationships can deepen vulnerability, resulting in a proliferation of rumours. Therefore, it is proposed that governments should utilize new technologies, break away from traditional governance systems, and construct a rumour resolution system focusing on demand‐oriented approaches, employing artificial intelligence techniques, and precision repairing of social trust. This approach aims to reduce public vulnerability during significant pandemics and enhance the government's capabilities in rumour prevention and emergency management.