Navigating the Murky Waters: Mitigating Disinformation on Social Media

In today’s hyper-connected world, information flows like a raging river, carrying both valuable knowledge and dangerous currents of disinformation. Social media, while empowering us to connect and share, serves as a fertile ground for the latter, posing a significant threat to informed decision-making and social cohesion. But fear not, fellow Kiwis! We can learn to navigate these murky waters and protect ourselves from the pitfalls of disinformation.
Firstly, let’s understand the enemy. Disinformation, distinct from misinformation (unintentional spread of false information), is the deliberate fabrication and dissemination of misleading or false content to achieve a specific objective, often manipulation or harm. This can range from fabricated news articles to emotionally charged memes, targeting everything from public health to elections.
Disinformation comes in various forms, ranging from misleading narratives to manipulated media content. In the context of social media, where information travels at the speed of a click, it is crucial to recognize that disinformation can take the form of fake news, misinformation, and deepfakes. Fake news involves the dissemination of false information with the intent to deceive, while misinformation refers to the inadvertent spread of inaccurate information. Deepfakes, on the other hand, use advanced technology to manipulate visual and audio content to create realistic yet fabricated material.
Disinformation tactics are as diverse as our online landscape. Impersonation of trusted figures like journalists or officials lends false credibility. Emotional manipulation exploits fear, anger, or outrage to bypass critical thinking. Algorithmic exploitation leverages platform algorithms to amplify specific content, creating echo chambers where misinformation festers.
The methods through which disinformation spreads on social media platforms are multifaceted. Automated bots, orchestrated by malicious actors, amplify the reach of misleading content by engaging in mass-sharing and interaction. Moreover, the phenomenon of echo chambers, where individuals are exposed only to information that aligns with their existing beliefs, contributes to the rapid spread of disinformation as it reinforces preconceived notions.
Social media’s impact on this equation is undeniable. Its viral nature allows disinformation to spread like wildfire, reaching vast audiences before fact-checking can catch up. Additionally, filter bubbles created by personalized algorithms limit exposure to diverse perspectives, further solidifying biases and making individuals susceptible to manipulation.
So, how can we, as responsible citizens, mitigate this threat? The key lies in empowering individuals. Here are some practical steps:
1. Become a critical consumer: Don’t share information blindly. Verify sources, check for reputable publishers, and be wary of emotionally charged content. Utilise fact-checking resources like Te Pūrongo Fact Checking or The Indian News Investigation.
2. Think before you share: Take a moment to reflect on the information’s source, purpose, and potential impact. Don’t amplify unverified claims. Remember, sharing is not always caring.
3. Engage in healthy discussions: Foster open dialogue with diverse perspectives, even if you disagree. Challenge unsubstantiated claims respectfully and encourage fact-checking.
4. Report Suspicious content: It is important that users identify and report potential suspicious and harmful content and eschew any engagement with such contents.
5. Support quality journalism: Subscribe to and engage with credible news sources that uphold journalistic standards. This strengthens a free and independent press, crucial for combating disinformation.
Recent examples underscore the urgency of action. Remember the anti-vaccination myths that fuelled vaccine hesitancy during the pandemic? Or the false reporting by BBC on Chandrayaan-3? Al Jazeera spewing venom in the areas of religious and cultural harmony by false reporting on abrogation of Article 370 and Ayodhya verdict. These are stark reminders of the real-world consequences of unchecked disinformation.
By adopting these strategies, we can collectively build a more informed and resilient online community. Remember, the power to combat disinformation lies not with algorithms or tech giants, but with informed and responsible individuals like you and me. So, let’s navigate the online world with critical thinking and a commitment to truth, ensuring that social media empowers, not endangers, our democracy and well-being.
About the Author:
Dr Vinay Karanam, PhD, FIML, CEng(I), FIE, Co-Founder and CTO of Matakite Online Trust of New Zealand, A researcher on dispelling misinformation project.