{
  "id": 4875821,
  "title": "How to prevent AI from lying to you",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/01/how-to-prevent-ai-from-lying-to-you",
  "topic": "ai",
  "section": "AI",
  "published": "2026-09-01T14:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Fast Company",
    "slug": "fast-company",
    "url": "https://www.fastcompany.com/91598970/how-to-prevent-ai-from-lying-to-you"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Recent events have demonstrated the potential for AI systems like Google’s to fabricate information, even when relying on real sources. A reader of the Cord Cutter Weekly newsletter inquired about why they couldn’t access Apple TV via Roku after subscribing through the Roku Channel. Google’s AI overview claimed otherwise, but upon investigation, it was based on a dubious online discussion thread and a non-existent CNet article, highlighting the unreliability of AI as a trusted source. These instances illustrate that AI chatbots should be viewed as unreliable witnesses or interrogation subjects rather than dependable advisors. Major AI platforms often allow users to specify how they should respond, such as including citations in ChatGPT responses. However, citations alone do not guarantee accuracy, as evidenced by the Roku example. It’s vital to verify the sources and ensure their credibility. While AI can be useful for refining queries with natural language, it’s not always accurate and may even produce incorrect information if the underlying sources are unreliable. Persistence is key when using AI tools; if an AI answer appears suspect, ask for proof or a direct quote from the cited source. Even Google Search, with its conversational AI features, can sometimes provide unverifiable information. Demand better responses when AI links to questionable sources, like dead-end websites or random Reddit comments. While AI’s seamlessness can be appealing, adding a layer of verification can prevent you from falling victim to fabricated information.",
  "summary": "Recently I found myself having to disprove something that Google’s AI made up. A reader of my Cord Cutter Weekly newsletter wanted to know why they couldn’t use the Apple TV app on their Roku after signing up for the service through the Roku Channel. This is in fact a notable downside with Roku’s subscription marketplace—you have to use Roku’s own apps and menu system to access the content—but…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}