Strategies to fight against disinformation

The consequences linked to mala praxis in information processing do not only affect the field of health, but rather all spheres of life. Recently, the European Parliament provided ten keys for identifying disinformation and fighting against its effects, which we have summarised below.

Remain alert

Look beyond the sensationalist headlines, give priority to the in-depth content, pay attention in order to be able to avoid the strategies that are specially designed to generate gimmicky interactions.
 

Learn to decode disinformation

Pay attention to the language used, remaining cautious when we see that it appeals directly to our emotions. Identify misleading language and vague statements. Go to clear, objective sources that provide information based on verifiable facts.
 

Check the source

Give priority to information from credible sources, which accredit transparent and professional working practices and methods.

Check the facts

Take initiatives to check the veracity of the information before sharing it with other people (especially relevant on the subject of health), particularly on social media. Only spread content when we are certain that it has been reviewed by local data checking organisations.

Compare the information

In order to not be led by the bias of the recommendation algorithms, you should compare the information on different reliable sources. This will allow you to offset any possible manipulations and fake data.

Think twice before sharing

When sharing content, you should leave necessary time for reflection. You should also ensure that you have meticulously inspected the information that you share, going beyond the headlines, checking the details and the reliability of the source.

Check images

and videos.  It is essential to assure the reliability of the descriptive and audiovisual material that accompanies the information, making certain that they have not been manipulated (a particularly sensitive point in the creation of photographs and videos using artificial intelligence) or that have been distorted from their original source.

The importance of education and becoming informed

Not only should you check the information of the materials that you share, you should also keep up-to-date with the normal strategies that are used in the disinformation campaigns, to avoid becoming victims (or unconscious accomplices) of them. If you have any doubts about the veracity of the information, you can look for help by consulting specialised websites such as the European Parliament’s page on disinformation or the European Observatory of Digital Media.

Promote critical thinking

Encouraging reflection and debating with other people using prepared arguments makes you more resilient against infoxication and disinformation. Scepticism and lucidity are qualities that protect you against possible manipulations.

Inform of any suspicious content

Beyond knowing how to avoid the risks, it is essential for you to have a commitment to protect the community. For this reason, if you notice the existence of any unreliable or dangerous information, it is important for you to report it on the corresponding platforms or before the competent authorities following their reglementary procedures.