As AI-fueled disinformation explodes, here comes the startup counterattack | TechCrunch
Dec 13, 2024 - techcrunch.com
Refute, a London-based startup, has raised £2.3 million ($2.9 million) in a pre-seed funding round led by UK investors Playfair and Episode 1. The company specializes in detecting and responding to disinformation targeted at commercial entities, a growing concern exacerbated by geopolitical instability and generative AI. Unlike competitors such as Alethea, Blackbird AI, and Logically AI, which focus primarily on detection, Refute offers both detection and response solutions. The startup identifies disinformation campaigns by analyzing adversarial behaviors, leveraging the expertise of co-founders Tom Garnett and Vlad Galu, who have backgrounds in national security and internet infrastructure, respectively.
The funding round also saw participation from Notion Capital, Amadeus Capital Partners, and angel investors including Charlie Songhurst and Carlos Espinal. Andrew Sheffield of Playfair Capital highlighted the increasing difficulty in distinguishing fact from fiction and the decreasing cost of spreading misleading content. Garnett and Galu bring over 40 years of combined experience in data analysis, cybersecurity, and combating various forms of criminal activity, positioning Refute as a key player in the fight against disinformation in the commercial sector.
Key takeaways:
Refute, a London-based startup, has raised a £2.3 million ($2.9 million) pre-seed round to combat disinformation for commercial entities.
The company differentiates itself by offering both detection and response solutions, unlike competitors who focus primarily on detection.
Co-founders Tom Garnett and Vlad Galu bring extensive experience in data analysis, cybersecurity, and combating disinformation.
Investors in the funding round include Playfair, Episode 1, Notion Capital, Amadeus Capital Partners, and several angel investors.
