We are living in a world where news is fast and there is breaking news every few seconds. In this battle of breaking the latest news, newsrooms have forgotten the basic ethics of journalism and the consequence of this is the phenomenon of fake news. Although fake news is not a new thing over the years it is seen a massive rise in recent years.
One app that has played a massive part in spreading fake news is Whatsapp. While WhatsApp has taken steps to curb fake news, such as limiting message forwarding and introducing labelling for forwarded messages, the magnitude of the problem requires sustained and collaborative efforts from various stakeholders. As one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms, WhatsApp must prioritize the development of robust tools and strategies to identify and combat fake news effectively. Whatsapp has been used for propaganda which has the ability to spread violence and chaos in society. WhatsApp’s group chat functionality fosters a sense of community and trust among members. Propagandists exploit this dynamic by infiltrating or creating groups, leveraging social proof to lend credibility to their messages. When misinformation is shared within trusted circles, individuals are more likely to accept and propagate it without questioning its authenticity.
So how can one counter propaganda? The easiest way is to source your news from reliable news outlets. There are multiple news outlets which can help you out to dismantle fake news. Additionally promoting media literacy is paramount. Schools, communities, and governments must prioritise educational initiatives that equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate the digital landscape. By teaching how to discern fact from fiction and promoting responsible online behaviour, we can build a generation armed with knowledge and resilience against the onslaught of fake news.