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Author
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Viorela Dan, Britt Paris, Joan Donovan, Michael Hameleers, Jon Roozenbeek, Sander Van Der Linden, and Christian Von Sikorski
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Year
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2021
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Publisher
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Sage Journals
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Abstract
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This study examines the growing role of visual mis- and disinformation in contemporary digital media environments and its implications for democratic societies. The authors argue that misinformation is increasingly communicated through images, videos, memes, and other visual formats that audiences often perceive as authentic representations of reality. Drawing on interdisciplinary research, the article explains how social media platforms amplify visually manipulated content through algorithmic promotion and rapid sharing practices, making such content highly persuasive and emotionally engaging. The study highlights emerging threats posed by deepfakes and advanced visual editing technologies, which not only spread false information but also undermine public trust in journalism, institutions, and verified evidence by creating uncertainty about what is real. It further discusses the limitations of traditional fact-checking in correcting visual misinformation and emphasizes the need to expand media and information literacy to include strong visual literacy and critical evaluation skills. Overall, the article concludes that understanding and addressing visual disinformation is essential for protecting informed public discourse and democratic processes in the digital age.
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Language
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English