Fake news in the context of exposing their falsehood

Abstract

Thesis/Aim: The main aim of the article is to present the process of the creation and dissemination of fake news and the mechanisms used to debunk them, as well as to verify the classification of fake news into three categories: completely fabricated information, information that distorts the picture of reality, and manipulated materials.

Research Methods: The study employed the method of qualitative content analysis. The research material consisted of 31 political fake news items, identified and described by the fact-checking portal Demagog.org.pl in the period from January 1, 2024, to September 1, 2024. The analysis involved categorizing the collected data according to predefined variables, such as the type of false information, the technology used, distribution channels, and verification methods.

Results: The analysis showed that the most numerous category is fake news that distort reality, which are based on true information but completely warp its meaning. Fully fabricated news was the least common. It was found that the main channel for distributing false content is social media (such as Facebook, X, TikTok). Three main methods for detecting fake news were also identified: content analysis, verification of source materials, and checking at the source.

Conclusions: The study allowed for the identification of recurring mechanisms for the creation, dissemination, and verification of fake news. The key role of fact-checking methods in building a critical approach to the phenomenon of disinformation was emphasized. It was also noted that due to the continuous development of technology and media, the phenomenon of fake news is a forward-looking issue that requires further research.