A survey funded by the European Union reveals a worrying finding: one in three pieces of content on major social platforms is misleading or toxic. This study, conducted by the French NGO Science Feedback, highlights the prevalence of misinformation on networks such as TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). What lies behind these alarming figures and what are the consequences?
The 3 key facts not to be missed
- Nearly 34% of content on TikTok exposed to users is misinformation.
- LinkedIn is the exception with only 2% of explicitly false content.
- Health topics have the highest rate of fake news with 43% misleading content.
An unprecedented European study
A pioneering study supported by the European Union was conducted to assess the proportion of misleading content on major social networks. The analysis covered 2.6 million posts viewed approximately 24 billion times, spread across six major platforms: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Researchers employed professional fact-checkers to examine a representative sample of 500 pieces of content per platform and per country, thus revealing the considerable influence of algorithms on the proliferation of false or toxic content.
TikTok and X: problematic platforms
The study’s conclusions are unequivocal: TikTok and X are particularly problematic, with 34% and 32% of content exposed to users being misinformation, respectively. TikTok stands out with the highest rate of posts containing factually false information, reaching 20%. These platforms favor shocking and controversial content to retain users’ attention, generating significant advertising revenue.
The topics most affected by misinformation
The health sector is the most affected by misinformation, with 43% misleading content identified. Internet users are often confronted with scams, miracle cures, and pseudo-sciences, exploiting their vulnerability. Other sensitive topics, such as the war in Ukraine, national policies, climate, and immigration, are also instrumentalized to provoke emotional reactions.
Recommended actions and perspectives
In light of this concerning situation, researchers recommend that European authorities strengthen online content moderation, demonetize problematic posts, and review algorithms to curb the spread of false information. However, platforms often invoke freedom of expression to justify their reluctance to more strictly moderate this content, despite the obligations imposed by the Digital Services Act.
Science Feedback: a key player in the fight against misinformation
The French NGO Science Feedback plays a crucial role in the fight against misinformation on social networks. By coordinating studies such as this one, the organization strives to raise public awareness and encourage platforms to adopt more ethical practices. Founded by scientists, Science Feedback uses a factual and rigorous approach to assess the accuracy of information circulating online, thus contributing to better user information.