STAFF- ED: Beware of misinformation

Public figures contribute to the unfortunate spread of misinformation through social media platforms as world affairs intensify

For many, misinformation in the media is almost undetectable, as seemingly credible news outlets and social media accounts disseminate false information. In a society where everyone is becoming technologically dependent, it is imperative to be aware of the consumption of fake news.

The rapid growth of misinformation has the potential of having severe consequences for anyone on social media. A Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) study led by data scientist Soroush Vosoughi found that tweets carrying false information were 70% more likely to be shared than real news, regardless of who users were following on Twitter. This number could easily drop if people were made aware of the importance of fact-checking their information.

“The main issue with misinformation is that it is used to deceive people into believing someone or agreeing with someone’s argument,” junior Jovahnny Garcia said. “Misinformation in today’s society is a reoccurring thing because [of] how quickly information spreads and how it can be twisted for one’s own personal use.”

The threat of misinformation can come from individuals themselves — or more disturbingly, foreign groups motivated by the desire to have influence over major American affairs. During the 2016 U.S. presidential election, the media exploded in disbelief when it was revealed by Facebook that a Russian-linked operation was spreading false propaganda aimed at swaying the AfricanAmerican population into favoring president Donald Trump’s campaign.

Moreover, teenagers who often depend on social media for fast news are the most vulnerable targets of misinformation because of their dependence on technology. When misinformation is put out on platforms that teenagers use on a daily basis, the truth being left out can only have destructive outcomes.

One of the greatest threats currently is in regard to the coronavirus, as false propaganda regarding potential vaccines and remedies are being shared by civilians and public figures alike.

According to a study conducted by a team of Oxford University researchers, the greatest sources of COVID-19 misinformation are influencers, celebrities and politicians. This is especially concerning as they have large platforms and the ability to reach millions within seconds. Anyone can easily fall victim to this fatal irresponsibility that fails to take into account the grave consequences that health misinformation can bring. However, it does not take research to see the rampant ignorance currently existing in social media. For instance, NBA All-Star Damian Lillard praised a controversial video of a fake doctor uncovering the “truths” of the severity of COVID-19. In retrospect, the significance of a retweeted post can influence those who remained uninformed of the deadly virus when the source is not fact-based.

DID YOU KNOW?

A false story reaches people six times quicker than a true story.

Source: American Association for the Advancement of Science

Furthermore, news agencies usually considered reliable have been caught spreading fake news. When addressing the Trump Administration’s relations with Russia, The Washington Post, The Telegraph and ABC News all reported that Russian hackers led by Putin had taken over the U.S. electricity grid, an allegation that was debunked and was nowhere near true. If the media was not so insistent on publishing sensational news, embarassments such as this one could be avoided easily avoided, as they only create unnecessary panic and chaos.

Furthermore, Trump has also been caught spreading fake news. In discussing the pandemic, Trump stated that the amount of reported cases of COVID-19 would decrease as the warmer months would approach. This was quickly disproven only days after by Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

“The spread of the incorrect information can cause divisions between communities,” junior Jonathan Burgos said. “Awareness can be brought out by talking about the times that misinformation lead to serious or fatal consequences.”

Misinformation can corruptly persuade the choices of the people when it comes to making decisions that can greatly impact their daily life or in the long run. This can range from fake infographics for endorsements for public office, to health products or produce that can be dangerous or toxic.

The dangerous expansion of misleading information poses threats to the kids that are on the internet. This is why parents should go the extra mile to understand the influence of the internet and its mastered algorithms. Social media platforms should begin to take responsibility for fact checking as well, considering the amount of people exposed to their product. No one can be truly safe from misinformation until the issue is given the attention it so urgently deserves.