Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of information pollution through AI, highlighting how misinformation can spread rapidly and be accepted as truth by AI systems, leading to potential harm to individuals and brands [27][45]. Group 1: Information Pollution Mechanism - AI can inadvertently spread false information based on erroneous data it encounters online, as demonstrated by the example of misidentifying a character's parentage [6][8]. - The author conducted experiments to illustrate how easily misinformation can be injected into AI systems, showing that even a newly created account can influence AI responses with the right prompts [12][15]. - The concept of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) is introduced, where individuals can manipulate AI to promote specific narratives or discredit others, effectively turning misinformation into a business model [27][29]. Group 2: Impact on Individuals and Brands - The article highlights the risks posed to individuals, such as job candidates, who may be unfairly judged based on fabricated negative information generated by AI [30][31]. - It emphasizes the ease with which negative information can overshadow positive attributes, leading to reputational damage for brands and individuals alike [39][40]. - The author notes that the current landscape allows for the rapid dissemination of negative narratives, which can be more impactful than positive ones due to human nature's tendency to focus on negative information [41][42]. Group 3: Recommendations for Mitigation - The article suggests that individuals should not take AI responses at face value and should seek additional sources of information to verify claims [53]. - It encourages the preservation of original information sources to maintain a sense of perspective and awareness of biases in AI-generated content [54]. - The author advocates for contributing truthful content to counter misinformation, even if it seems insignificant, to help create a more balanced information environment [55][56].