With deepfakes and misinformation becoming more convincing, it’s crucial to think critically about what we see and read. Dr Marian-Andrei Rizoiu, Associate Professor in Behavioural Data Science at UTS, shares three key questions to help you assess whether the information you come across is real or fake.
Where did it come from?
Did the information come from friends, family, colleagues or the media? Always check the source. Is it reliable and trustworthy? Consider whether this source might have any biases.
Traditional news outlets follow regulations and quality standards. According to Dr Rizoiu’s research, these news sources generally provide complete and safer-to-consume information. However, keep in mind that even established news publishers can have political biases, shaped by their history or ownership. Tools like the AllSides media bias chart or Media Bias Fact Check can help assess bias and reliability.
On the other hand, unregulated sources like blogs or social media are more prone to spreading incomplete or biased information, as they don’t have the same editorial oversight and rigorous standards of journalistic integrity found in traditional media.
Can it be verified?
It might seem simple, but Google it! Cross-check the information with other credible news sources or research studies. If it stands alone, or is inconsistent with other reliable outlets, it’s likely inaccurate.
Social media often shows biased, curated versions of the news that fits specific beliefs. With 69% of US adults using social media for their news, many see cherry-picked content rather than objective, balanced coverage.
This echo chamber effect is worsened by algorithms in social media and search engines, which recommend content similar to what users have already engaged with. To break free from this information bubble, Dr Rizoiu suggests we actively seek out alternative viewpoints. Search engines like Google will present the same information across multiple sources. Even reviewing just the first page of search results, including the page ranking of sources, can provide useful clues. If multiple credible sources contradict the claim, consider it a red flag. For a truly objective search, consider deleting your browsing history first.
However, even using Google has its limitations. A recent study found that web searches can reinforce belief in misinformation, particularly when users rely on low-quality sources. This happens because people often search for information that aligns with their existing beliefs, not to find balanced views.
Sometimes, misinformation producers invent terms, which leads to them dominating search results for those terms. For example, the term "adrenal fatigue" was created to promote specific misinformation, and for a period, the only Google results came from sources promoting that concept.
Does it sound too good (or bad) to be true?
If something feels too extreme, either positive or negative, it probably is. Sensational headlines, emotional manipulation and clickbait are designed to grab attention and draw you in. Be wary of professional-looking visuals or polished content, as these can mask misinformation.
Generative AI tools, like ChatGPT, has made it easier to create convincing content, and even harder to spot misinformation. Gone are the days when spam had obvious spelling and grammar errors. Now, everything can look flawless, significantly impacting our defence against misinformation.
Dr Rizoiu’s research also highlights the use of “junk science”, where legitimate research is distorted to support false claims.
Misinformation often uses seemingly credible sources to create a misleading narrative. This includes referencing reputable news articles or academic studies but removing context and nuance to distort the findings — sometimes intentionally, or simply due to a lack of understanding.
In a world where deepfakes and misinformation are increasingly difficult to spot, critical thinking is your best defence. By questioning the source, verifying information across credible outlets, and being wary of sensational claims, you can better navigate today’s overwhelming flow of information.
Want to dive deeper? Join Dr Marian-Andrei Rizoiu and a panel of experts at SXSW Sydney 2024 for an in-depth discussion on the spread and impact of deepfakes, fake news and misinformation on a global scale.
Want to learn more about the spread of misinformation in our digital world? Check out our Curiosities series on YouTube.
