Published on
It's now well known that disinformation is a scourge that threatens our democracies. According to Policy Horizons Canada, this is the greatest threat facing the world. In the next three years, people may not even be able to distinguish between what is true and what is not. Here are a few tips to help protect yourself.
A growing trend
In January 2024, the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) reported the emergence of a new form of climate denial on YouTube, which consists of contradicting the environmental movement, science and solutions put forward for adapting to climate change. In its report, the CCDH noted that in 2023, 70 per cent of all climate denial claims examined on the platform were based on the new denial, compared with 35 per cent in 2018. In this type of environment, it becomes imperative that we open our eyes and ears wider when it comes to searching out information, and adopt a critical approach in order to avoid falling into these traps. It's important to remember that anyone who deliberately circulates false information is doing so for a real purpose, which can sometimes be dangerous. This is a form of public manipulation that unfortunately weakens states and their institutions.
This is a global issue that was examined at COP28
Watch the webinar 🎬Social media, for its part, also has a vested interest in propagating sensationalist and polarizing content, since its business models are based on the monetization of attention, and this type of content encourages engagement and quick action (clicks, likes, shares, etc.). Another problematic aspect of these platforms is the use of algorithms that can propel the news further, regardless of whether or not it is true. Indeed, the more a particular piece of news is shared by users, the faster it gains momentum, thereby amplifying its reach. Algorithms also enable subscribers to continually consume similar content, creating echo chambers from which it is difficult to disengage.
Defending yourself against misinformation
By making a conscious effort to develop the appropriate reflexes in the face of misinformation, you'll be able to protect yourself and others from it. Here are a few tips on how to do this.
Do some housekeeping
Periodically unsubscribe from accounts that share content you're not comfortable with. Influencers, content creators and brands need to earn your attention, and there's nothing to stop you from disconnecting from them when things get to be too much.
Refrain from sharing
A piece of news that is true will remain true whether we share it immediately or wait for a bit. Fake news is usually designed to make us react quickly, and if we hold back for a while, we may be able to avoid making a mistake. Holding off will allow you to sharpen your critical faculties and ask yourself some pertinent questions.
Double-check sources
In this digital era, all you have to do is type the subject of what you're reading into a search bar and you'll get a wealth of related content. If enough of it points in the same direction and if it comes from reliable sources such as mainstream media or scientific bodies, then you should be reassured. However, if the information is inconsistent, it may be time to move on to something else.
Observe
There are certain telltale signs when it comes to the veracity of information, and getting used to recognizing them will certainly help you remain more alert to disinformation. If the information you're seeing contains errors, is not recent or up-to-date, refers to broken links or is of questionable design, it's best to err on the side of caution and investigate further.
🚨A serious risk
According to the UN, disinformation is a "major obstacle to progress in tackling the climate crisis" and "often leads to slower action, or even harmful action".
How do we stop it?
Disinformation is quite difficult to counter, as it spreads very quickly and in all areas of society. That's why it's so important to discuss it with those around you, with those close to you, to spread best practices and encourage a conscious awakening and a healthy awareness of the issue. We also believe that by getting at the root of the problem, we can counteract disinformation that is out there and help slow down its spread. We believe that our leaders must recognize the magnitude of the threat and take a proactive stance in the fight against climate disinformation by implementing strategic and coordinated actions to protect the integrity of information in Canada - that's what we're asking them to do.
