In the article, "The Science of Fake News: Addressing Fake News Requires a Multidisciplinary Effort," which appears in the publication, Science in March 2018, David M.J. Lazer, et al. give the following definition:
"We define 'fake news' to be fabricated information that mimics news media content in form but not in organizational process or intent. Fake news outlets, in turn, lack the news media’s editorial norms and processes for ensuring the accuracy and credibility of information. Fake news overlaps with other information disorders, such as misinformation (false or misleading information) and disinformation (false information that is purposely spread to deceive people)."
As the information and media landscapes continue to change with technological and social shifts, it often becomes harder to simply apply the label of "fake news" to a story, since there are additional complex elements at play. However, the video below from the European Parliament provides eight simple steps on how to spot when news could be fake.
Below is a chart compiled by Statista based on data from the Reuters Initiative’s Digital News Report 2024. The report highlights that out of the major social media platforms, TikTok is one where users have the most trouble spotting fake news. This is an alarming trend considering how the data shows that many users globally rely on TikTok as a news source.
You will find more infographics at Statista
