Podcast Discusses Impact of AI on Fake News and Healthy Content
amsterdam, dinsdag, 23 september 2025.
In the latest episode of the podcast ‘It’s All the Fault of Social Media’, researcher Sander Duivestein and host Kirsten Jassies discuss the influence of AI on the spread of fake news and the definition of healthy content. The discussion focuses on the necessity of accurate, harmless, and valuable content, while the role of atmosphere and vibe in media is not overlooked. The season emphasises less judgment and more curiosity, with much recognition for listeners.
AI and the Spread of Fake News
Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly significant role in the spread of fake news. This technology can both facilitate and combat the dissemination of misinformation. On social media platforms, AI algorithms are used to personalise and distribute content, which sometimes leads to the spread of incorrect information. An example of this is an Instagram post by Defresher Slovensko, which explicitly states that the content is intended for entertainment and has nothing to do with reality [2]. This approach illustrates how AI can be used to create content that goes viral quickly, even if it is not true.
AI in Combating Fake News
Alongside the negative impact of AI on the spread of fake news, this technology also offers opportunities for combating it. Many platforms and institutions use AI to detect and neutralise misinformation. For instance, the University Libraries offer workshops where participants learn how to identify AI-generated or manipulated images and how to fact-check information [5]. These initiatives are crucial for ensuring the reliability of information and maintaining the integrity of media users.
Implications for Media Literacy and Democracy
The growing influence of AI on the spread and combat of fake news has significant implications for media literacy and democracy. It is essential that media consumers are able to distinguish reliable sources from unreliable ones. Researchers and experts stress the importance of media literacy and critical thinking to ensure the integrity of information. Matthijs Mentink, a social media strategist, argues that healthy content should be accurate, harmless, and valuable [1]. These criteria are crucial for promoting an informed and engaged citizenry.
Practical Tips for Identifying Fake News
To combat the spread of fake news, experts and institutions provide practical tips for identifying unreliable information. Here are some useful suggestions:
- Verify Sources: Ensure that the information comes from reliable and recognised sources.
- Consult Multiple Sources: Compare information from various sources to get a more balanced view.
- Use Fact-Checking Websites: Utilise websites such as Snopes, FactCheck.org, and Politifact to verify claims.
- Analyse Media Bias: Be aware of potential biases in the media and try to analyse them.
- Check Technical Features: Pay attention to the quality of images and videos, as AI-manipulated media can often exhibit subtle differences.
These steps help readers identify reliable information and avoid inaccurate messages [5].