Approaches to tackle the spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation online: Knowledge and lessons from overseas
Keywords:
fake news, misinformation, disinformationAbstract
This research article presents a survey of approaches to tackle the spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation online in other countries, in order to provide an overview of attempts and lessons learned from dealing with this phenomenon. Using a qualitative research methodology, the author conducted documentary research on existing research and academic articles, reports, surveys, and news reports during 2014 to 2019. The study finds 5 approaches: 1) Legislative and regulatory approach; 2) Media literacy education approach; 3) Fact-checking approach; 4) “Quality journalism” approach, and 5) “Responsible technology” approach.
Existing literature concerning approaches to tackle fake news, misinformation, and disinformation online show that the spread of misleading information is a problem that needs solutions because it affects people’s health, rights, and freedom, as well as democratic processes and national security. Therefore, the news and information ecosystem must be transparent and enable a free flow of quality information, so that people are informed with accurate and diverse information that is sufficient for daily life and participation in social and political processes without interference from influential groups. Moreover, studies suggest that approaches to tackle the spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation should integrate various approaches and ensure participation from every stakeholder, in order to form multi-perspectival and multi-dimensional solutions.
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