New data from Google Trends show that the Philippines is still the top country in the world searching for terms “fake news” and “misinformation” over the past year.
The country is also part of the top ten in the world searching for “disinformation” and “fact-checking” as topics. This means that more Filipinos are getting curious and would like to understand more about these important issues, Google said.
Fact-checking is a basic skill that everyone should learn, Deunida is quick to point out, adding that there are some quick and easy ways to help spot fake news.
In a statement, BHW party-list representative Angelica Natasha Co said the debunked Comelec hacking claim “is an attempt to cast seeds of doubt in the minds of the public on an IT matter that is beyond their understanding.”
A research expert said “the damage inflicted by fake news can be serious, and its ramifications far and wide, as news could travel more quickly on social media, especially sensational stories, which most disinformation producers invent in selling fake news.”
Social media giant Facebook has launched “Digital Tayo 2.0”, an updated version of its digital literacy program that includes new modules on “Digital Engagement” and “Digital Empowerment”.
When users are sharing information without giving it any thought, it is quite likely that they are motivated by the prospect of presenting themselves as updated and well-informed netizens.
“A lot of people share these things with the thought ‘there’s no harm in sharing’ – thinking that if it turns out to be true, then they somehow helped. As good as their intentions may be, sharing false or misleading information can actually be harmful.” – Owen Cammayo
The “Break the Fake Hackathon” is three-city event that challenges programmers and developers to create systems that will help institutions battle disinformation.
