When even official media sources can inadvertently spread disinformation, what can every citizen do to stay vigilant against foreign interference?
On 22 Oct, the Singapore government banned 10 websites found to be run by foreign actions and containing hostile information campaigns.
Masquerading as independent news outlets from around the world, such misinformation/propaganda websites could implant insidious content that could influence or mislead readers.
The motives behind such websites hinge on the “hostile media effect” studied by mass communications experts for the past few decades.
Staying vigilant in social media
In reality, seemingly-innocent news websites are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to propagating disinformation/misinformation and hostile social-political interference.
The information superhighway now allows such nefarious activities to be conducted on platforms such as social media; any kind of discussion platforms (even comments sections of official, trusted media platforms if not moderated well); and even via encrypted point-to-point private messages that are difficult to track.
The cautionary tale of badly handled unintentional disinformation in the seven-year Syria civil war is one textbook example of what state-sponsored and malicious political activists can achieve — especially when there is even the slightest lack of constant vigilance at diplomatic and citizenry levels.
So, how can people around the world be more vigilant against such foreign interference? Actually, the basics of protection are similar to that of scam-awareness and social media safety rules.
Becoming critical information consumers
Here are 12 tips to help readers to be vigilant against not just against hostile media, but also any kind of untruthful content that slips past the gatekeepers of official media sources and spreads to all other international media.
- Verify sources: Always check the credibility of the source before sharing or believing information. Look for established news outlets, and cross-reference any dubious facts against multiple reputable sources. Even official media platforms now host clickbait content that is known to contain exaggerations, lies and fluff, if not scam ads.
- Examine domain names: Be aware that operators of spoof websites may use AI to save time when populating the pages. Look for signs such as repetitive phrasing, lack of depth, or unusual/inconsistent language use.
- Identify AI-generated content: Be aware that operators of spoof websites may use AI to save time when populating the pages. Look for signs such as repetitive phrasing, lack of depth, or unusual/inconsistent language use.
- Check for paraphrasing: When reading articles that seem to summarize local news, verify the original sources to ensure that the information has not been misrepresented or taken out of context. This is especially important because, to gain initial reader trust, such websites usually do not blatantly violate copyright principles or add dubious claims. The psychological techniques used are more akin to subtle, long-term PsyOps (psychological warfare) methods.
- Be skeptical of sensational claims: Approach extraordinary claims, especially those that incite fear or anger, with skepticism. Investigate the facts before sharing.
- Stay informed about misinformation tactics: Familiarize yourself with common tactics used in misinformation campaigns, such as creating inauthentic news sites, exploiting societal tensions, or manipulating narratives around elections.
- Engage in media literacy skills: Educate yourself and others on how to critically analyze news and information. This includes understanding biases, recognizing persuasive techniques, and identifying emotional appeals.
- Report suspicious content: If you encounter suspicious websites or content, report them to relevant authorities or platforms. This helps to mitigate the spread of misinformation.
- Encourage open dialog: Foster conversations about misinformation and foreign interference within your community. Open dialogue can help raise awareness and promote critical thinking.
- Follow official government and trusted organizations’ updates: Stay updated on official communications regarding misinformation threats and protective measures put in place by your government or trusted organizations.
- Understand your rights: Be aware of the laws and regulations regarding misinformation and foreign interference in your country. This knowledge can empower you to recognize when these laws are being violated.
- Be wary of social media algorithms: Understand that social media platforms often use algorithms that can amplify misinformation. Diversify your news consumption to avoid being caught in echo chambers without even knowing it.
As the information war rages on with the help of GenAI, bear in mind that the basic principles above could be outdated soon, due to the power and trust of AI.
Therefore, staying vigilant against any form of trickery and mind control is a daily discipline that gets easier with practice and continual learning.
