2. Manage

The second element of the support materials focuses on how an organisation can act in the event of malign information influence. Here, guidance is provided for managing information influence, analysing the situation and taking appropriate measures to curb its impact.

In this section, you will learn how to manage information influence and about the methods and tools available for dealing with the situation. You will learn how communication, security and management can interact in real-life situations to ensure effective management. You will also gain insights into strategies for countering disinformation and strengthening the trust of both employees and the general public.

By having clear procedures and coordinated working methods in place, the organisation can react swiftly and effectively, minimise consequences and maintain control over the flow of information.

Questions?

Please see our frequently asked questions and answers about the Capability Platform.

By answering these questions, you will gain a better understanding of strengths, areas for improvement and the initiatives that may be needed to strengthen preparedness. The self-assessment serves as practical support for identifying development needs and making your organisation more resilient.

  • Have you established internal and external contact channels for alerting to the spread of false information and rumours?

  • How does your organisation deal with a false information and rumour-spreading incident? Who or which functions are included?

  • How are the consequences of false information and rumour-spreading included in your work on situational awareness?

  • Are you able to disseminate targeted communication to different groups, demonstrating what is true and the values that your organisation represents? Can you coordinate your messages with others?

  • Do you know how you can obtain support from the Psychological Defence Agency?

  • Do you work with systematic external monitoring aimed at the early detection of rumour and social unrest tendencies that could damage trust in your organisation?

  • Has psychological defence been integrated into existing management and governance structures?

  • How does your organisation learn from incidents – individually and collectively with other organisations?

In our glossary we list words and explanations in alphabetical order that describe our field. If you consider that a word is missing, please let us know.

Detecting

External monitoring

External monitoring is an important part of efforts to detect and manage false and misleading information that can affect your organisation or your area of responsibility. By following trends in society, the media and digital platforms, organisations can see early on where there are risks, and take measures to protect themselves against disinformation.

Countering

During the crisis – communicate swiftly

When a crisis has struck, it is crucial to act swiftly and communicate openly and accurately. If your organisation already has important documents in place, the work will be easier and faster.

Internal crisis management in the event of malign information influence

By determining in advance who should be informed in the event of suspected threats, how staff should be called in and how to organise the work of a crisis management team, you can act swiftly and effectively in a situation that requires special management.

Legal framework for response

Public-sector actors play an important role in preventing, detecting and countering information influence. But, how should they proceed in compliance with laws and democratic principles?

Reliable information

In the event of a crisis or serious incident, accurate and verified information is crucial. Krisinformation.se collects information from Swedish authorities and other responsible actors.

After the crisis – evaluation time

Evaluation after an incident helps you understand what worked well and what could be improved. By analysing efforts and learning lessons, you can strengthen the organisation’s capabilities.

Case studies

City of Malmö builds resilience

At the time of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, the City of Malmö was subjected to misleading information. Mathea Jakobsson, coordinator for the press and crisis communication, explains how strategic communication and trust-building efforts helped when the city was subjected to information influence.

Build relationships and be vigilant

When a false rumour about contaminated drinking water spread in February 2025 in Östersund, crisis management was put to the test. Municipal Chief Executive Anders Wennerberg shares his insights on trust, leadership and swift decisions.

Anders Wennerberg, Östersunds kommun.

Other elements of the Capability Platform

Learn to recognise the threat

Prepare and reduce vulnerability to malign information influence. Learn to identify risks, prepare communication and create a coordinated internal approach.

Reinforce the organisation

Benefit from the knowledge that the organisation has gathered, and develop it. Hold training and exercises to reinforce the organisation.