Disinformation often begins on closed messaging platforms, such as Telegram, WhatsApp, or Signal, where individuals with similar political beliefs and ideas can easily create groups. According to Charlotte Maher, a disinformation expert at Bellingcat, these platforms are often the source of disinformation.
Viral Spread
Once created, disinformation can quickly go viral on social media platforms like TikTok, X, or Facebook, where users share and amplify their opinions. Shayan Sardarizadeh, a journalist at BBC Veriffy, notes that TikTok is particularly important due to its massive user base of over 1 billion people.
The Most Dangerous Platforms
Along with Telegram, TikTok is considered one of the most dangerous platforms for spreading disinformation. Experts have seen how public opinion can change, leading to significant consequences, such as altering voting and elections. For example, the Brexit referendum was influenced by disinformation.
The Challenge of Changing Minds
Charlotte Maher and Shayan Sardarizadeh, two renowned fact-checkers, met in Madrid to discuss their work. According to Sardarizadeh, changing the minds of those who believe in false information is a significant challenge. “If you can get someone who believes in something that is viral, and is not right, change their mind, that’s a job well done,” he says.
Disinformation as a Goldmine
The recent attack on Trump has been a goldmine for creators of hoaxes, as have previous disinformation crises in Gaza and Ukraine. Gaza is considered one of the most complicated issues, with restricted internet access, making fact-checking and verification difficult.
The Role of Bots
Beliefs can be generated by bots, which are often funded by countries like Russia. According to Maher, the Russians have an extensive network of bots and funding, and their propaganda has been proven to be effective. This model is replicated by other countries, highlighting the importance of combating disinformation.
