The spread of fake news and AI-generated content on social media has become almost a daily occurrence. Platforms like Facebook often host fake photo cards imitating news outlets, adding fabricated quotes or stories. Many users, unaware of AI's manipulative power, mistake these for truth and spread them further, distorting public perception.
Resisting rumours requires first learning to identify them. Every piece of information we encounter must be evaluated for accuracy. Information generally falls into three categories: misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation.
Misinformation is false information shared unintentionally; the sharer does not realize it is inaccurate. Disinformation is deliberate, designed to attract likes, followers, or attention. It is often shared through fake accounts and increasingly uses AI-generated images or videos to deceive the unsuspecting. Malinformation is the most dangerous-it spreads fabricated incidents or quotes to harm opponents, often serving personal or political interests. For example, during the thirteenth national election, statements falsely attributed to political leaders sparked public criticism and unrest.
Rumours and misinformation act like poison in society. They can harm communities, the economy, and mental well-being. They can even incite violence and take lives. Recently, a Hindu garment worker was beaten to death due to a fabricated religious accusation, later revealed as an internal conflict among workers. Similarly, a woman named Renu, seeking school admission information for her daughter, was attacked following a false child-abduction rumour. Such tragedies show the urgent need for awareness.
Combating rumours requires education and vigilance. Fact-checking must become a part of learning from secondary school onwards. People should verify information using reverse image searches, multiple sources, and AI-detection tools. Journalists must confirm facts before publishing, using interviews, cross-checking, and editorial review to maintain media credibility.
Ultimately, awareness among ordinary people is the strongest defence against rumours. By questioning, verifying, and sharing responsibly, society can limit the spread of falsehoods and protect itself from dangers of misinformation in the digital age.
Afifa Jahan Pushpo
Student, University of Dhaka
