How to navigate online disinformation and propaganda and practicing information resilience.

During terrorist attacks, war, conflict, emergencies, and disasters the online information ecosystem can be difficult to navigate.

We live in a 24-hour news cycle, driven by social media and online news which is amplified in our news feeds and curated by opaque algorithms.?

Certain complex sets of bad actors use social media during crises to spread misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda. The amplification of this content is part of the business model of social media platforms.

Here is some practical advice on how to avoid spreading misinformation, disinformation and propaganda, how to increase your own information resilience, and importantly, how to practice some self-care.

Avoid Spreading Mis/Disinformation and Propaganda:

First principle: If you can’t verify that information is correct and legitimate - and that it is helpful to share - then don’t share it.

Keep an eye out for:

1. Its source: make sure it's from a reliable news or expert account
2. Check date of publication and context
3. Avoid sharing unconfirmed reports and distressing content
4. Be skeptical of AI or doctored images

5 Ways to Increase Information Resilience:

On top of fact-checking information, be critical about what you read:

1. Diversify your news sources
2. Evaluate expert opinions
3. Avoid clickbait stories
4. Question your biases

To Practice Self-Care:

The constant flow of distressing news can be overpowering. For those who can, a good reminder is to limit the exposure and avoid constantly refreshing social media feeds. If you’re struggling, consider talking to family members, friends or to a professional.

For a deeper dive into how to navigate social media in times of crisis and practice information resilience, take a look at our new guide.