US activist group Avaaz reports apparent misinformation on video platform

More than 100 top global brands are playing ads on their YouTube channels that spread misinformation about climate change. According to a report by US activist group Avaaz, these include brands such as Samsung, L'Oreal and Danone, who are often unaware that such advertising is running on their channels.

“Confusion about crisis”

“This is not about free expression, but about free advertising that gives YouTube factually false videos. This content is confusing people about one of the biggest crises of today. YouTube should not lead users to and promote misinformation,”

criticizes Julie Deruy, senior activist at Avaaz.

Avaaz examined videos that users first see on YouTube using the search terms “global warming,” “climate change,” or “climate manipulation.” The focus was primarily on videos recommended by the platform.

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According to Avaaz, of the first 100 clips about “global warming,” 16 contained misinformation, eight about “climate change” and 21 about “climate manipulation.” Many of these videos run as advertisements on well-known brands’ channels.

“Strict advertising guidelines”

The activist group is calling on YouTube to demonetize content that spreads misinformation about climate change. The platform should also be more transparent and show users how many views such videos receive from their own recommendations.

YouTube, however, questions Avaaz's report. The method is not defined clearly enough. The activist group would also subjectively evaluate the content of the videos.

“YouTube has strict advertising policies that govern where ads appear. Brands have the opportunity to decide for themselves which advertisements are shown on their channels. We are also working to reduce recommendations for harmful content and misinformation,”

said the Google subsidiary.

In keeping with the topic: Facebook, Twitter and YouTube will have to report hate postings to the BKA in the future

Source: press text
Article image: Shutterstock / By AngieYeoh


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Notes:
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