Spread of Misinformation in Malayalam: A Case Study on the User Engagement and Impact of Third-party Fact-checking on Facebook

In today's ever-evolving digital landscape, where information dissemination shapes our perception of reality, the study of user engagement and the pivotal role played by factchecking come to the forefront. This research focuses on the Malayalam-speaking community on Facebook to explore how users navigate and interact with misinformation, as well as the pivotal impact of third-party fact-checking within this specific linguistic and regional context. The prevalence of misinformation, particularly in socio-political contexts, serves as a catalyst for this investigation. Kerala's distinguished political literacy and varying levels of digital proficiency add complexity to the misinformation landscape. Facebook's prominence in spreading misinformation emphasises the necessity for a thorough examination in the Malayalam speaking community. By delving into the ways individuals in Kerala engage with misinformation on Facebook, this study casts light on their encounters with deceptive content. Additionally, it underscores the indispensable role played by third-party independent fact-checking initiatives in countering misinformation. The findings from this research would transcend academic boundaries, offering valuable insights for formulating effective strategies and policies aimed at upholding the integrity of public discourse and information accuracy within the digital realm.

Download Pdf