When searching for information through the Internet you can use search engines such as Google, media, social networks…
However, these searches can lead to inaccurate answers, often coming from dubious sources. Misinformation on the Internet is a growing problem and a threat to the integrity of online information.
The recent spread of misinformation on social media during the conflict between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel illustrates the magnitude of this problem.
An analysis of two million posts on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok by Tel Aviv-based disinformation detection firm Cyabra reveals that 25% of the accounts that published information about the conflict were false. Despite everything, these false posts have been viewed more than half a billion times.
How to recognize fake news about the conflict between Israel and Hamas
This situation raises a critical question: how to combat misinformation on the Internet? In a world where truth struggles to break through in the face of misinformation, there are some ways to achieve this.
Distinguish facts from fiction
It is crucial to develop the ability to distinguish fact from fiction. Misinformation sometimes spreads camouflaged as legitimate information. We must carefully consider the source of the information and be skeptical of unsupported claims. Even well-informed people can fall into the misinformation trap. Cross-checking is essential: search multiple sources and check the authenticity of the information.
During the conflict in the Middle East, many false claims were widely spread on social media, from images and videos from video games that were presented as real events to misleading statements by public figures. The lesson here is that information that comes from social media and unreliable sources should be viewed with the utmost suspicion.
Pay attention to Community Notes
Despite the rising tide of misinformation on social media, the “Community Notes” feature on platforms like Twitter plays an important role in fact-checking. Hundreds of these notes related to the conflict between Israel and Hamas have been attached to fake tweets. The user community has come together to correct and debunk misinformation.
While Community Notes are a positive step, they do not replace the individual responsibility of verifying information. It is very important that social media platforms take greater responsibility in the fight against misinformation and removing false content and suspending accounts that spread it are crucial steps.
Use trusted sources
One of the keys to combating misinformation is to consider the source of the information. The Internet is a labyrinth full of traps and false shortcuts, where things are not always what they seem. Even educated, intelligent people who consider themselves well-informed can be fooled by fake news. The key is to take a critical approach and question the credibility of sources.
In the case of the conflict in the Middle East, numerous examples of disinformation circulating on the Internet arose. From videos and archive photos presented as current to statements by public figures that lacked foundation. The fundamental lesson is that information from social networks and unverified sources should be met with a high dose of skepticism.
Perform cross check
To fight misinformation, it is essential to turn to reliable sources and verify information in multiple ways. Cross-verification, which involves searching for information from various sources and verifying the authenticity of facts, is an effective strategy. Data confirmation is a crucial step in separating truth from fiction.
As information can spread more and more rapidly, the need arises to be more critical and committed in the search for the truth. Misinformation not only affects public perception of important events but can also have real consequences on people’s lives.
The importance of individual responsibility
Ultimately part of the responsibility when it comes to combating misinformation falls on each individual, who must be responsible for fighting misinformation.
In addition to being critical, reflective and committed to the search for truth, misinformation thrives in an environment where people share unverified information. Before sharing a post or tweet, you should consider the source and verify its authenticity, instead of contributing to the spread of false information.