Beyond the Synthetic Veil: A Triple-Lock Framework for Neutralizing AI-Generated Death Hoaxes in Corporate Crisis Communication

In an era where AI-generated video and audio can convincingly imitate corporate leaders, the latency between misinformation and credible verification, the Trust Velocity Gap (TVG) has collapsed to near zero. This paper argues that traditional crisis-response windows (e.g., 24 hours) are obsolete. Instead, a Zero-Hour mandate governs the trajectory of corporate reputational risk and stakeholder financial stability. We define the TVG, articulate a Zero Hour readiness framework, and propose metrics and governance mechanisms to protect long term value. Through theoretical framing and scenario analysis, the paper demonstrates that rapid, validated, pre-vetted communications within the first sixty minutes are determinative for investor confidence, employee trust, customer loyalty, and procurement stability.