New Survey Exposes Social Media’s Role In Misinforming Black Communities

There is an alarming rise in disinformation in the media for Black Americans as the elections approach, according to a recent survey.

Survey Highlights Disparities In Media Consumption And Misinformation

A public opinion poll commissioned by Free Press BSP Research and the African American Research Collaborative surveyed 3,000 people in the US. 

The findings reveal that Black and Latino Americans are more likely to access news on platforms like Facebook and YouTube compared to their white and Asian American counterparts. 

This group is also more engaged with social media content, with 69% Black and 62% Latino respondents frequently seeking news on their experiences.

Unfortunately, this increased reliance on social media makes these communities more susceptible to disinformation. 

The survey shows that Black adults are significantly more likely to encounter false information online, with 32% reporting frequent online harassment, compared to 18% of white respondents. 

This disproportionate exposure to misinformation and harassment contributes to a broader concern about the reliability of online information.

Growing Concerns About Online Disinformation

Most Americans express concern over the prevalence of online disinformation, especially as the US presidential elections approach. 

Only one in four Americans feels very informed about local elections, with Black, Latino, and AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) individuals particularly affected by this information gap.

“This points to a desperate need this year to educate and engage the public on the stakes of what this election means, and about local candidates and down-ballot issues,” said Nora Benavidez, senior counsel at Free Press.

“As we look towards the 2024 elections, we are starting to see that voters of color may, in fact, be targeted with disinformation in ways that would sway their attitudes or seek to divide them and dissuade them from being part of the democratic process.”

Call To Action For Social Media Companies

In light of these findings, there is a strong call for social media companies to take more decisive action against disinformation. 

The survey reveals that 71% of Americans want social media platforms to limit false and fake information about elections, with 72% supporting the blocking of racist or otherwise hateful content.

Moreover, a majority of respondents advocate for increased public funding for local news to support more diversity in sources. 

Specifically, 62% of Black people favor public funding compared to 52% of Americans. 

Additionally, there is widespread support for acknowledging and addressing racial bias in historical news coverage, with 64% of Black respondents endorsing this view.

Demand for Action Against AI-Fueled Lies

Adding to this context, more than 200 groups, including civil organizations, researchers, and journalists, have recently written to major tech CEOs urging them to tackle AI-fueled disinformation ahead of global elections. 

This letter coincides with upcoming elections in over 60 countries in 2024 and calls on companies like Google, Meta, and TikTok to ensure truthful online content and safeguard democratic processes.