The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has transformed information platforms, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation and connectivity. However, this rise has also given way to new digital threats that pose significant challenges to the integrity and security of online information. This chapter examines the dual nature of AI's impact on digital ecosystems, focusing on the vulnerabilities that arise from its deployment, such as misinformation, data privacy breaches, and algorithmic bias. Particularly concerning are AI-generated or AI-modified content forms, such as deep fakes, which can manipulate reality and spread misinformation at an alarming scale. These technologies create realistic audio and video representations indistinguishable from authentic content, leading to potential exploitation in political contexts, social unrest, and reputational damage. In Europe, regulatory efforts have emerged in response to these challenges. The Digital Services Act (DSA) and the AI Act represent crucial legislative frameworks aimed at safeguarding users and promoting responsible AI usage. The DSA seeks to establish a safer digital space by imposing stricter obligations on online platforms to combat harmful content, including the identification and removal of deep fakes. Meanwhile, the AI Act introduces comprehensive regulations for high-risk AI systems, mandating transparency and accountability in AI applications. In Italy, AI and digital security have gained prominence, with national strategies aligning with the EU’s objectives. Italy's National AI Strategy prioritizes ethical AI development and emphasizes combating digital misinformation. Italian law further strengthens data protection (GDPR) compliance, placing particular focus on sectors like media and public administration, where AI-driven content could influence public trust and opinion. This contribution highlights the intersection of AI advancements and regulatory efforts, exploring how the DSA, AI Act, and Italy's national initiatives address the complexities of modern digital threats, including the proliferation of manipulated content. It argues for a proactive approach in developing legal and technical safeguards to mitigate risks associated with AI-driven misinformation campaigns and the manipulation of public opinion. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in harmonizing regulatory standards and fostering a secure digital environment. Ultimately, this chapter aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the implications of AI in information platforms, advocating for a balanced framework that promotes innovation while protecting users from emerging threats. Through a critical analysis of current regulations, it seeks to identify best practices for harnessing the potential of AI responsibly and ethically.

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misinformation,disinformation,fundamental human rights,European Union,Italy,AI,artificial intelligence,AI act,DSA,digital services act,EU,deepfakes

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