Abstract: In 2023 the disputes and discussions about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in different spheres of life have flared up with renewed vigor. As the indisputable advantages of the use of automated systems and algorithms in the media are efficiency (the ability to quickly and accurately search for information, create template texts, check data), comprehensiveness (the ability to analyze any topic, to work with any direction), convenience (when properly configured does not require extra effort from the media specialist), learning (the ability to quickly absorb new knowledge and to analyze the needs and demands of the audience). The disadvantages are a noticeable number of errors and inaccuracies, fears of job cuts (especially in newsrooms), limitations in communication, lack of legislative regulation of AI, dependence on technology, the ethical aspect of work. The scientific and professional communities are increasingly drawing attention to the serious threats posed by the use of neural networks and computer algorithms. The article raises questions about the risks and challenges of using artificial intelligence, analyzes its capabilities regarding the threats to media safety (both the creation of fakes and deepfakes and the exposure of such content). Special attention is given to the methods of applying neural networks in the media space, which seems especially relevant nowadays, when IT developments have become one of the central themes for discussions at many international venues. Possible options for the further use of these technologies in the near future and the consequences of this application are presented as conclusions.

Abstract: The subject of the research in this article is the specificity of fake content in the conditions of active development of artificial intelligence (AI). The first half of 2023 demonstrated how serious an impact AI can have on the life of society in general, and on the information agenda in particular. In the era of a continuous stream of received data, it is increasingly difficult to verify the content and critically comprehend all the information received. The so-called deepfakes have become a truly relevant media threat that can cause mass unrest and affect the mood of the audience. In this regard, it is relevant and important to study fakes created by AI in order to identify ways to detect and expose them. The article touches upon such important aspects as the concept and characteristic features of fake content as a threat to information security, the distinctive features of deepfakes as an AI product, and presents key steps for recognizing fakes.
The scientific novelty of the research lies in the disclosure of the role of deepfakes in the modern information space, the dangers they carry (including due to their instant replication through social networks) and options to combat them within the media consumption of a wide audience. Moreover, it demonstrates the need to develop further steps to increase the level of media literacy and to anticipate the negative consequences that fakes can cause.

Abstract: In the conditions of market economy, special role is played by mass media, since they represent not only a platform for promoting any category of goods and services (permitted by the country’s legislation), but also are the key channel for advertising consumer goods manufactured in any other economic sector. The current state of affairs led to the dominance of the segment of commercially oriented mass media in the modern media environment, which usually are part of the media holding and aim to benefit by any possible means, most of the time through publication of advertising materials. The subject of this article is the processes of commercialization and monopolization as the crucial factors that entailed the transformation processes in media environment, first in the United States, and later in the Russian Federation. The scientific novelty of this research consists in detailed description of the consequences of these processes, determination of the degree of influence of the global media market upon mass media of both countries, and outlining further trends in the development of journalism under such conditions. The conclusion is drawn that the lofty aims of serving public interests, creating objective and independent content, and providing adequate coverage of the events fully depend on the media owners. Therefore, open competition, wide range of offers on the market, and variety of media choices in essence are the nonexistent phenomena, namely die to commercialization and monopolization processes that characterize modern Russian and US mass media.

Abstract: As of today, Big Data is the source of information that journalists can no longer neglect. Data sets, databases, unstructured data on the official websites of the government or commercial institutions are a resource for the work of journalists. Big Data is not only the source of information, but also the evidence base. Using quantitative and statistical indicators as the arguments for their theses, the journalists increases the level of audience loyalty and trust to the publication. Data analysis, establishment of correlations, making forecasts and ratings allows creative exclusive, attractive and reliable content that attracts the audience and improves reputation of the publisher. This article is dedicated to determination of the role of “big data” in the work of information and analytical departments of the publisher, as well as in coverage of the socially relevant topics and outlining trends in further work of the journalists with such information. Over the study period (from 2017 to the present) the author employed the methods of description, comparative analysis, and generalization. In conclusion, the author notes that the collection and processing of the data requires a strong approach and utmost attention of the journalists.