Perceived Risk and Trust in News Sources: A Multi-Group Analysis of Deepfakes and AI-Generated Misinformation

This study employs the risk information seeking and processing model to examine how perceived risk, trust in news sources, and information-seeking behavior interact in the context of AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes. Using data from 300 Chinese and 263 South Korean participants, the research applies a moderated-mediation approach to assess cultural differences. Findings reveal that perceived risk reduces trust in news sources via information-seeking behavior. AI-generated misinformation amplifies this relationship, though effects vary: South Koreans engage in more information-seeking, while Chinese participants show reduced engagement, likely due to differing media environments and regulations. These insights highlight cultural nuances in misinformation response.