Algorithms in social media often amplify the spread of sensational and emotional content because these types of posts generate more engagement. ‘It is good that measures, like those in the Digital Services Act, are being taken to limit this, but there is still a lot of work to do,’ Droog said. The Digital Services Act and additional regulations are designed to limit the spread of fake news. However, it is difficult to monitor what the big tech companies are actually doing and what effect it is having.
Factcheckers
A strong factchecking movement has emerged in Europe that also closely monitors information surrounding the European elections. ‘Factcheckers have reported that of all misinformation and fake news detected this year, about 11% was about European policies, compared to 4% last year. This indicates an increase in misinformation about European elections and policies.’
Droog's previous studies deal with ambiguous information, where you think ‘there's something to it’, such as humour, satire, metaphors and fake news. Information that is unclear and open to multiple interpretations because of a lack of context, specificity and clear language. Recognising and dealing with this information requires critical thinking skills, seeking clarification and consulting additional sources to gain a more accurate understanding. ‘Research by our team shows that preventing belief in misinformation is not enough. Even if people know something is fake news, it can still influence their opinions and behaviour. Misinformation can have a lasting impact on your opinions and behaviour even if you rationally know it is false,’ Droog said.
Deepfakes and spreading misinformation
‘Deepfakes can be used to spread misinformation by making it appear as if someone has said or done something outrageous or illegal. This can damage reputations and influence voters. Combatting this threat requires a multi-faceted approach involving technology, public education and regulatory measures.’
Strategies to combat fake news
‘Fact-checking initiatives are crucial, evaluating the effectiveness of websites and tools. In addition, education plays an important role in increasing media literacy and teaching skills to distinguish reliable information from unreliable. Governments and tech companies should also take measures to limit the spread of fake news, through legislation, content moderation and transparency of algorithms.
Reducing the impact of fake news on feelings, opinions and behaviour is difficult. More research is needed on effective strategies to counter these effects.’
The role of education in promoting media literacy
‘Education is essential in promoting media literacy. Lessons are given on recognising misinformation, but these lessons need to be carefully taught and evaluated to prevent people from becoming too sceptical of all information, including reliable sources,’ Droog said.
Do you have any advice for our readers with the European elections approaching?
‘Immerse yourself in how the European Parliament works and study party programmes on reliable websites. Prevention rather than cure: if you think something is wrong, stop reading. As soon as you read misinformation, it can already affect you, even if you know it is not true.’
You will also discuss fake news during an interactive session at the Déjà VU Festival?
Yes, on 13 June during the Déjà VU Festival at ‘Science Live’ on the campus square from 18:00 to 18:45. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Publication:
Combatting the Misinformation Crisis: A Systematic Review of the Literature on Characteristics and Effectiveness of Media Literacy Interventions