Combatting Fake News In Taiwan With Offline Education

Students of Fake News Cleaner learn how to use the LINE app to identify fake news during a class in Kaohsiung City, southern Taiwan, Thursday, March 16, 2023. An anti-misinformation group in Taiwan ca

In Taiwan, a grassroots organization called Fake News Cleaner has been diligently working to combat the spread of misinformation and disinformation. The group, established in 2018, focuses on educating the public, particularly seniors, about the dangers of fake news and its impact on society.

With just one formal employee and a team of volunteers, Fake News Cleaner has conducted over 500 events, engaging with various demographics, including college students, elementary school children, and seniors. The organization recognizes the vulnerability of older individuals to misinformation due to generational gaps and technological advancements.

Organization focuses on vulnerable groups like seniors to address fake news impact.

Fake News Cleaner combats misinformation in Taiwan through education and engagement.

Organization focuses on vulnerable groups like seniors to address fake news impact.

Over 500 events conducted by Fake News Cleaner to raise awareness on misinformation.

Group uses offline engagement at churches, temples, and community centers to reach wider audience.

Interactive sessions teach critical thinking skills to discern credible information from fake news.

Fake News Cleaner aims to strengthen family relationships and community bonds through open discussions.

Efforts extend beyond traditional lectures to empower individuals to navigate digital landscape effectively.

Organization highlights emotional tactics used by content farms to combat fake news.

Fake News Cleaner contributes to Taiwan's media literacy and societal well-being through dedicated efforts.

By sharing personal stories and real-life examples, the group creates a more informed and united society.

Disinformation in Taiwan covers a wide range of topics, from health-related myths to false claims about businesses and social issues. The prevalence of fake news not only affects individuals' beliefs but also has tangible consequences, such as financial losses for businesses and potential health risks for the public.

While Taiwan already has established fact-checking organizations, Fake News Cleaner takes a unique approach by focusing on offline engagement. By setting up stalls in churches, temples, and community centers, the group aims to bridge the gap for those who may not be tech-savvy and are more susceptible to misinformation.

The organization's efforts extend beyond traditional lectures, incorporating interactive sessions to teach individuals how to discern credible information from fake news. By highlighting the emotional tactics used by content farms and emphasizing critical thinking skills, Fake News Cleaner empowers its audience to navigate the digital landscape more effectively.

One of the group's key objectives is to strengthen family relationships and community bonds by fostering open discussions about misinformation. By sharing personal stories and real-life examples, Fake News Cleaner aims to create a more informed and united society.

Through their dedication to combating fake news, Fake News Cleaner is making a significant impact on Taiwan's media literacy and societal well-being. By engaging with diverse audiences and promoting critical thinking, the organization serves as a beacon of truth in an era plagued by misinformation.