Bad advice and conspiracy theories go viral - authorities often trivialize problems
Targeted misinformation worsens the outbreak of dangerous diseases such as the coronavirus. Conspiracy theories, fake news and, above all, false advice increase the risk of widespread spread, as a study by the University of East Anglia shows.
“The location is often glossed over”
“In the event of an epidemic, people should get their information from public authorities. Fake news increases the population's distrust in it, which is, however, not entirely unfounded.
Official bodies tend to gloss over the situation or only present partial aspects. People feel this and therefore look for alternative sources, which achieves exactly the opposite of what was intended,”
explains blackout expert Herbert Saurugg in an interview with pressetext.
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For their study, the researchers created a variety of theoretical simulations with which they examined the effects of epidemics. They took into account data about human behavior in such cases, the spread of various diseases in the past, and the speed at which information spreads on social media.
They also used data on users' tendency to distrust official sources and believe conspiracy theories instead.
“Not ready for pandemic”
The result of the simulation was that fake news leads to more misconduct in epidemics and thus accelerates their spread. Poor behavior includes failing to wash and disinfect your hands or sharing food with those who are sick.
People are more likely to share advice about such behavior than information from trusted organizations like the WHO, according to the study. According to the researchers, in order to combat dangerous fake news, officials need to disseminate more good advice and better “immunize” people against untruths.
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Saurugg criticizes the lack of preparation for the potential emergency in Europe.
“The supply chains in and with China are currently breaking down. We will soon feel the effects of this on ourselves.
In the event of an actual pandemic and mass illness, we would currently not be able to maintain supplies within Europe. Officials should therefore also address these weak points and call for self-precaution instead of pretending that everything is fine and under control.”
Related to the topic: No morality to be expected: Why cybercriminals are even exploiting the coronavirus
Source: press text
Article image: Shutterstock / By MIA Studio
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Notes:
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