KARACHI:
Fake news means spreading misinformation for economic and political gains, in particular. Fake news can be categorised into different ways, such as 1) false context: genuine content is presented in a way that confuses viewers; 2) manipulated content: genuine information is used to mislead audiences; 3) making false connection among fact and figures; and 4) fabricated content: false or incorrect content is designed in a specific way to deceive the audiences.
Algorithms (computer-based programmes) determine social media’s function. Every second, millions of information posts are uploaded, and algorithms determine which content to present to a particular user. The online activities of social media users the world over are monitored, and sold to big corporation who use it for their economic and political purpose. These algorithms keep data about societal and political beliefs, our shopping and selection options and our interactions. These data storage algorithm identify the target groups and bombard them with a lot of information.
Furthermore, there are two basic types of human interpretation and receptivity: first, people only trust the information coming from well-known and credible source; second, people accept information that confirms their prior views and ignore information coming from opposition sources. The false content information is mixed with accurate content to give evidence of complete accuracy. The proliferation of misinformation creates serious threats to any structure.
Fake news is a strong weapon to create chaos in any society. Pakistan is a country where millions of its citizens are using social media. People should read and listen from only credible sources, and avoid sharing any posts. The government too needs to make awareness among people.
Sohail Saif Malik
Sargodha
Published in The Express Tribune, February 17th, 2021.
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