Problems with the credibility of our communications persist
In the digital age, the spread of misinformation and disinformation has become a significant concern, leading to an erosion of trust in media and online news platforms. The key difference between these two phenomena lies in intent: misinformation is false or inaccurate information shared without the intent to deceive, while disinformation is deliberately shared to mislead or manipulate others.
Misinformation can result from mistakes, misunderstandings, or unchecked assumptions. It often spreads quickly on social media, as people share information they believe to be correct without verification. Disinformation, on the other hand, is strategically created and disseminated, aiming to confuse, divide, or harm target groups. Types of misinformation include satire or parody, false connections in headlines, misleading or false context, impersonation of sources, manipulation of genuine content, and outright fabrication.
Both misinformation and disinformation pose significant challenges in public health, democracy, and social cohesion, as they can distort reality and erode trust in factual information. A 2023 study found that frequent, habitual users on Facebook forwarded six times more fake news than occasional or new users, highlighting the importance of understanding and combating the impacts of false information.
The internet thrives on sensationalism, not credibility, and prioritizes content that gets a lot of engagement, regardless of its factual accuracy. The internet age democratized the sharing of content, giving writers the opportunity to create and publish content regardless of factuality or truth. This has led to a flood of misinformation and disinformation, making it crucial for each individual to play their part in becoming part of the solution.
Influencers often do not verify the information they share, contributing to the spread of misinformation. Getting it right as a communications professional can make a career, while getting it wrong can have negative impacts. Nearly 80% of Americans are concerned that the information they see online is fake, false, or a deliberate attempt to confuse people.
Communications professionals need to speak publicly with great authenticity, empathy, and credibility, as their words demonstrate their values and contribute to the larger narrative. Skepticism is essential when evaluating information, especially if it appears too outrageous to be true. Verifying facts and credibility is crucial before sharing information, even if it seems harmless.
Small, incremental changes are necessary to bring trust and credibility back to online conversations. The problem of misinformation online has become too large to ignore. The Oxford-GlobeScan Global Corporate Affairs 2025 Survey Report highlights the increased importance of quality and credibility in communications. A 2024 Pew Research report noted that 40% of Americans who get their information online dislike inaccuracy the most.
Reporting misinformation to the original poster or online platform can help address the problem. Jennifer Best, the head of marketing for AmICredible, emphasizes the importance of each individual's role in combating misinformation online. In conclusion, understanding the difference between misinformation and disinformation, verifying facts, and promoting credibility are crucial steps towards restoring trust in online conversations.
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