Misinformation is spreading through social media, with a Pew Research report indicating that 40% of Americans dislike inaccuracy online, a 31% increase over five years. Misinformation occurs when individuals unknowingly share false information, while disinformation involves intentional dissemination of inaccuracies. Studies reveal that heavy Facebook users share more fake news, contributing to the erosion of trust in media. Online platforms prioritize sensationalist content for engagement, which facilitates the spread of misleading information, leaving many Americans concerned about the authenticity of the news they encounter.
A 2024 Pew Research report noted that 40% of Americans who get their information online say inaccuracy is the aspect they dislike the most, a number that's increased nearly 31% over the past five years.
Misinformation, or the inadvertent spreading of false or misleading information, is typically when people don't realize they are sharing something false. Its more sinister counterpart is disinformation, when a blatant and coordinated attempt to confuse and mislead is malicious and intentional.
A 2023 study from the University of Southern California found that frequent, habitual users on Facebook forwarded six times more fake news than occasional or new users.
The internet thrives on sensationalism, not credibility. Online platforms prioritize content that gets a lot of engagement regardless of how factually accurate it might be.
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