The majority of Americans are increasingly concerned about online misinformation, according to a recent survey. It was revealed there that many fear they lack accurate information, particularly about local political candidates.
Among the groups, Black Americans are more likely the ones to encounter widespread fake news online.
Disproportionate Impact on Black Americans
The study, conducted by the social media watchdog group Free Press, highlights that misinformation disproportionately affects Black Americans. These individuals encounter false information more frequently than others when seeking news online.
The report found that 50% of respondents encounter misinformation regularly, while only 28% feel well-informed about local elections.
The Need for Public Education
Nora Benavidez, senior counsel at Free Press, called for an urgent need to educate and engage the public about the upcoming elections.
According to her, the public is in desperate need to be educated especially when it comes to elections, their importance, and what they really mean to the citizens. Aside from that, they should also be informed about down-ballot issues and the background of the local candidates.
Microtargeting and Its Effects
Benavidez added that microtargeting has something to do with how online misinformation affects people based on race.
Black Americans reported higher instances of online harassment compared to other groups. The study also highlighted widespread concerns about the misuse of personal information.
Voter Disinformation Targeting
Looking ahead to the 2024 elections, there are growing concerns that voters of color may be targeted with disinformation designed to influence their attitudes or discourage them from participating in the democratic process.
Benavidez expressed these concerns, noting the potential for disinformation to sway voter behavior.
Social Media Usage Among Different Demographics
The study found that Hispanic/Latino and Black Americans are more likely to use social media platforms for news, The Guardian reports.
Specifically, 63% of Black adults and 65% of Latino adults get news from Facebook, compared to 56% of white adults. Similarly, 65% of Black adults and 67% of Latino adults use YouTube for news, versus 51% of white adults. Additionally, 54% of Black and Latino adults rely on Instagram for news, compared to 35% of white adults.
Support for Tech Companies Moderating Content
Majorities across these demographics believe it is acceptable for tech companies to prevent the distribution of political ads that spread false information.
The poll, conducted in March 2024, surveyed over 3,000 American adults. It found that 47% of respondents frequently encounter false or misleading news stories.
Decline in Content Moderation
This concern comes at a time when social media platforms are scaling back content moderation efforts and failing to provide transparency around these practices.
Despite the increasing spread of misinformation, these platforms are reducing their efforts to manage content effectively.
The Role of Media and Advocates
The findings indicate an important role for media and advocacy groups in ensuring that news and information meet the needs of a diverse, multiracial democracy.
Earlier this year, a lot of AI-generated fake news was shown on several YouTube channels. Tech Times reported that this type of AI misinformation is circulating like normal news. Usually, they target Black celebrities.
