EPOKA University, in collaboration with the Department of Business Administration, as part of the Empowering Human Dignity of European Union and Western Balkans Youth Project funded by the European Union, had the honor of hosting esteemed expert Prof. Dr. Osman Koroglu, journalist, marketing and communication expert.

In an era dominated by artificial intelligence (AI) and ubiquitous digital media, Professor Dr. Osman Koroglu's presentation shed light on the critical need for enhanced media literacy, a balanced information diet, and robust data privacy practices.

Media literacy, defined as the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and communicate various media messages, is more crucial than ever. Dr. Koroglu emphasized that critical thinking is at the heart of media literacy. Understanding mass communication, engaging actively as informed citizens, and being discerning consumers of media content are essential skills in the 21st century. Educational institutions were called upon to prioritize teaching these competencies to prepare students for the challenges of the digital world.

In his presentation, Dr. Koroglu introduced the concept of an "information diet," advocating for a balanced consumption of media. Just as a healthy diet requires variety and moderation, so does information consumption. Dr. Koroglu encouraged individuals to seek out verified, authoritative, and independent sources to maintain a healthy and balanced information diet, avoiding the pitfalls of misinformation and disinformation.

The risks associated with AI's ability to infer sensitive information from seemingly innocuous data are significant. Dr. Koroglu highlighted the dangers of reidentification and the invasive capabilities of facial recognition technologies. To combat these risks, he recommended several privacy tools and practices:

• Browsers: Use privacy-focused browsers like Firefox and Tor.
• Extensions: Install browser extensions such as Privacy Badger and HTTPS Everywhere.
• Password Managers: Utilize password managers to secure online accounts.
• Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security.
• Social Media: Regularly review and tighten privacy settings, and be mindful of the information shared publicly.
• AI Assistants: Periodically review and clear interaction histories with AI assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Dr. Koroglu underscores the importance of recognizing how media ownership can shape content. Being aware of potential biases helps consumers critically evaluate the information presented to them. Moreover, he points out that different types of information serve various purposes:

• Journalism: Aims to inform through verified, independent, and accountable methods.
• Entertainment: Seeks to amuse or engage audiences.
• Advertising: Focuses on selling goods and services.
• Publicity: Promotes visibility.
• Propaganda: Builds mass support for ideologies.
• Raw Information: Often found on social media, this bypasses traditional filters and can be a source of both valuable insights and misinformation.

Critical thinking was a recurring theme in Dr. Koroglu's presentation. He encouraged the audience to challenge assumptions, verify facts, explore different perspectives, and maintain an open dialogue. This approach helps avoid common logical fallacies.

Dr. Koroglu drew a clear distinction between disinformation—deliberately false information—and misinformation, which is incorrect or misleading without malicious intent. Understanding this difference is vital in combating the spread of false information.

Finally, Dr. Koroglu offered practical advice for protecting personal data in the digital age. Embracing privacy-conscious practices and tools is essential for safeguarding against tracking and unauthorized access.

In a world where AI and digital media are omnipresent, Dr. Koroglu's insights provide valuable guidance on navigating these complex landscapes. By enhancing media literacy, maintaining a balanced information diet, and prioritizing data privacy, individuals can better protect themselves and become more informed digital citizens.

EPOKA University extends its gratitude to Prof. Koroglu for sharing his insights and experience with the EPOKA students and staff. We wish him further success on his professional journey.