DFNN urges cohesive effort in fighting disinformation
DISINFORMATION has gone beyond gossips and spreading rumors; its effects have a reach far beyond online spheres.
Influencers and fake news peddlers openly spread misleading content to their followers. Even online and text scams frequently fool people into sharing personal details or money.
“Access to the internet also means access to a world of information, a large chunk of which is not properly verified. Individuals must protect themselves against this growing issue, but at the same time, the system and larger groups like companies should also work to protect the regular consumer,” DFNN President and CEO Calvin Lim said.
DFNN shares five ways to protect oneself from online propaganda.
Verify sources at all times. Make sure that all information and news comes from legitimate sources like reputable media outlets, especially before sharing these to social media profiles or to family and friends.
When getting information from social media, track its original source. Before believing or sharing news tidbits like short videos or photos, find the full source to get the complete story.
Read beyond the headlines. News and articles may be written using clickbait or misleading headlines. Be sure to always read entire articles.
Diversify sources. It is still a good idea to get news from a variety of trustworthy outlets to gain different perspectives and larger amounts of information.
Protect online footprint and identity. Do not share personal information to suspicious sources or individuals, to avoid being targeted by scams or illicit groups.
On a larger scale, DFNN believes that industry-wide changes to digital security, data privacy, and technological infrastructures will also play a key role in combating fake news and disinformation.
Fighting disinformation is in line with DFNN’s vision of digital inclusivity. It continues to look for partnerships that harness value from integrating digital solutions and finding synergies as new technologies come to the forefront.