There is a spike in online Misinformation and Disinformation as Papua New Guinea approaches a Vote of No Confidence, thus, it is important now more than ever to be cyber safe and practice responsible information sharing.
This guide will ensure you have stay aware and will install the tips you need to navigate social media and other online platforms more effectively and make informed decisions.
HOW DO I DIFFERENTIATE THE TERMS?
Misinformation: This refers to inaccurate or misleading information that is spread unintentionally. Someone sharing an outdated news story or an article with factual errors but without malicious intent is an example of spreading misinformation.
Disinformation: Disinformation, on the other hand, is deliberately false or misleading information created and spread to deceive or manipulate people. Fabricated news articles, manipulated videos, or social media posts designed to sow discord or influence public opinion fall under this category.
The Spread of Misinformation and Disinformation, and its Consequences:
Both misinformation and disinformation thrive online, where unverified information travels quickly. Social media platforms are a breading ground for misleading content. The consequences can be severe, fostering distrust in institutions, hindering informed decision-making, and even impacting the outcome of critical events like a Vote of No Confidence. This was evident as we all witnessed the recent ‘Black Wednesday’ misinformation spike.
HOW DO I IDENTIFY AND FIGHT MISINFORMATION?
Here are some key practices to help you identify and avoid spreading both misinformation and disinformation…
1. Think Before You Share: Don’t blindly share information online, especially with sensational headlines or emotionally charged language. Articles with exaggerated claims, scare tactics, or language that triggers strong emotions are often red flags.
2. Verify the Source: Look for established news outlets with a history of fact-checking and unbiased reporting. Government websites can also be a source of trusted information. Be wary of articles from unknown websites and pages/accounts with no clear editorial process.
3. Check for Evidence: Does the information cite sources? Can you verify the content elsewhere? Be wary of articles with unsupported claims.
4. Develop a Critical Eye: Use logic and reason when evaluating information. Does the information make sense logically? Does it align with established facts?
5. Look for Inconsistencies: Disinformation often contains inconsistencies or logical fallacies. Be wary of information that contradicts established facts or relies on emotional appeals instead of logic.
Mainstream media plays a vital role in providing reliable and accurate news reporting. Mainstream media outlets employ journalists who adhere to ethical standards and fact-checking procedures. Learn to prioritize news from these mainstream sources, and you can make informed decisions based on factual information, especially when it comes to important events like the upcoming vote of no confidence.
It is imperative that we adhere to these cyber safety practices, we can all contribute to a more informed and responsible online environment.
For the upcoming Vote of No Confidence, let’s prioritize the sharing of accurate information.
Remember! Misinformation and Disinformation are seeds of chaos, and being a responsible information consumer is critical for all of us to truly add value to building a community empowered by knowledge and critical thinking, inspired by growth and positive development, for a greater Papua New Guinea.