In a bid to ensure reliable and credible news during the upcoming presidential election on January 13th, Taiwan-based blockchain content verification company, Numbers Protocol, has unveiled a strategic initiative. By implementing a decentralized blockchain-based verification platform for digital media content, the company aims to counter misinformation and strengthen the integrity of reporting.
Drawing on Proven Technology for Trustworthy Reporting
Numbers Protocol plans to leverage technology previously employed in similar initiatives, such as the 2020 United States Presidential election and an Emmy-winning project focused on war crimes in Bosnia. The project involves capturing content in the field, which will then be uploaded to the blockchain using Numbers Protocol’s tools, Capture Cam and Capture Dashboard. These tools play a critical role in verifying the authenticity of digital media content and identifying potential manipulation by artificial intelligence.
Building Resilient Reporting through Blockchain
To enhance the credibility of news reporting, metadata, including information on content creators, will be securely archived on the decentralized web, creating an accessible historical digital archive. These records not only boost the credibility of news but also provide photojournalists with opportunities to monetize and license their work.
Establishing Vital Partnerships
Numbers Protocol has already formed key partnerships for this initiative. Collaborating with local media giant SETN, non-profit news organization The Reporter, independent photojournalists associated with EyePress News Agency, and the national news agency Central News Agency (CNA), Numbers Protocol emphasizes the collaborative effort to combat media interference and disinformation.
Tackling Media Interference in Taiwan
This initiative arrives at a crucial time for Taiwan, which has faced significant media interference. A recent survey revealed that 82.8 percent of Taiwanese encountered misinformation in the previous year, with over 90 percent believing its impact on society is either “serious” or “extremely serious.” Disinformation intensified during the controversial 2022 visit to Taipei by United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and subsequent Chinese military drills.
Global Significance: A Model for Future Elections
Looking beyond Taiwan, Numbers Protocol acknowledges that 40 national elections are scheduled in the coming year, involving 41 percent of the global population and 43 percent of the world’s gross domestic product. The challenges posed by disinformation and media interference are expected to persist. Through their Taiwan Election project, Numbers Protocol aspires to demonstrate how blockchain technology can ensure the credibility of media content during critical events, positioning Taiwan as a potential role model for other nations.
Restoring Trust in Media: Numbers Protocol’s Mission
Since its inception in 2019, Numbers Protocol has been committed to preserving the integrity of digital media on the blockchain, safeguarding over 100,000 items and supporting more than 50,000 daily queries. The company’s mission is to restore trust in the media, particularly during times of heightened skepticism, by showcasing the potential of blockchain technology in verifying the authenticity and origin of digital content.
Conclusion: Blockchain as a Guardian of Credibility
Sofia Yan, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Numbers Protocol, highlights the daily challenges of media interference and manipulation in Taiwan. Through their blockchain-powered platform, the company aims to rebuild trust in news media by providing a tangible solution to verify the authenticity of digital content. If successful, this initiative could establish a precedent for other countries grappling with similar issues, demonstrating the transformative potential of blockchain technology in fostering trustworthy journalism.
The source of the article is from the blog guambia.com.uy