COVID-19
A recent research study conducted by scholars from York University analyzed discourses within documents from five non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that have played a significant role in shaping the debate around COVID-19 misinformation. Drawing from Carol Bacchi's "What is the problem represented to be?" framework, the researchers
Internet personalities
China's Cyberspace Administration (CAC) has introduced a rule requiring influencers to hold a degree in a specific area if they wish to share information on sensitive topics online. The measure, which came into effect on 25 October, aims to reduce online misinformation and protect social media users from
Elections
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a national advisory on the responsible use of synthetically generated information and AI-generated content during elections, following concerns over violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and other legal provisions by political parties and their representatives on social media. The advisory
Misinformation
In the face of baseless alarmism and misinformation surrounding vaccinations, a dedicated team of health workers in Eswatini, led by veteran nurse Sister Thuli Magagula, is working tirelessly to protect the nation's children from preventable diseases. With a deep understanding of the myths surrounding vaccinations, Magagula and her
Misinformation
A new study from the University of Minnesota has highlighted the ongoing disparities in HIV transmission among Black sexual minority men (BSMM) in the United States. According to the research, BSMM continue to be disproportionately impacted by HIV due to various economic and socio-cultural barriers, including mistrust of medicine and
Social media
Following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, a torrent of false and misleading claims spread on social media, fueled by conspiracy theories and a dearth of accurate information. As officials struggled to identify the suspect, no less than 22 different versions of the shooter'
Social media
A study by researchers at Sheffield University has found that social media misinformation about the contraceptive pill is discouraging women from using it, leading to a significant decline in its use. The study identified the "nocebo effect", a phenomenon where people experience adverse effects due to negative expectations,
Social media
Food choices are complex and influenced by various factors, including biological, cultural, and business strategies. Nutrition and public health scientists agree that the food environment plays a significant role in determining our eating behaviors. The environment has a physical component, such as grocery stores and marketing, which can shape our
Social media
According to a recent study published in the Romanian Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, researchers at Umm Al-Qura University have found a significant association between dental misinformation and social media use among individuals in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia. The study aims to examine the prevalence of dental misinformation and
Social media
As the moon passed through the Earth's shadow during the recent lunar eclipse, unscientific advice flooded social media platforms, alarming pregnant women with baseless claims about the adverse effects of eclipses on their unborn babies. The Maharashtra Anti-Superstition Body (MANS) has now called for strict action against those
Social media
A defamation case has been registered against six individuals in Nuh, Haryana, for allegedly posting defamatory remarks against Ferozepur Jhirka MLA Mamman Khan on social media platforms. The MLA had criticized social media influencers at a public meeting, leading to a sharp response from Indian National Lok Dal leader Mohammad
Social media
Researchers in Canada have highlighted the effects of misinformation on social media on the use of contraceptives among younger women. According to a study published in the BMJ, the introduction of universal coverage for contraceptives in British Columbia led to an initial increase in prescriptions, but also revealed steep declines
