Climate misinformation is rife on social media - and poised to get worse
Briefly

Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, has decided to end its fact-checking program and diminish content moderation, raising concerns about the prevalence of climate misinformation. This decision could lead to an increase in misleading claims, particularly during disasters. Research shows that effective fact-checking can combat misinformation on climate change, especially when tailored to audience values and involving trustworthy messengers. Furthermore, the distinction between misinformation and disinformation is crucial, emphasizing the intent behind the information shared on social media during crises.
Meta's decision to reduce content moderation raises concerns over the potential increase of climate misinformation on Facebook and Instagram.
Fact-checking effectively combats climate misinformation, correcting political distortions and helping shape public understanding.
The distinction between misinformation and disinformation lies in intent; misinformation is shared without malicious intent, whereas disinformation is spread with the aim to deceive.
In crisis situations, social media usage spikes, leading to an increase in both true and misleading information about climate change.
Read at Inverse
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