7 November 2025
Social media is an almost unavoidable activity in modern society. The difference between trustworthy and untrustworthy news on public forums has become a frequently discussed and occasionally volatile topic over the last few years. As a freelancer, you must learn the skill to evaluate the motives behind online posts and learn to distinguish false content from real information.
Misinformation vs. disinformation
Misinformation is classified as ‘false or misleading content including hoaxes, conspiracy theories, fabricated reports, click-bait headlines and even mockery.’ Misinformation is not deliberately intended to deceive. Instead, it aims to shape or change public opinion on a given topic.
Disinformation can be spread using many of the same tactics as misinformation—hoaxes, clickbait, fabricated reports. Disinformation is created to deceive. Disinformation can be shared by people or businesses for various reasons, like to increase their social media marketing effectiveness, boost their online traffic, build more followers for their page or business, incite an emotional response, or create a distraction. Disinformation can be dangerous on social media because the sheer amount of information there and the length of readers’ attention spans can allow it to go unchecked.
Personal accounts
If you are following a personal account and wondering about the reliability of the news it shares, it’s important to ask questions and do research. Social media platform algorithms are designed for optimised user retention and engagement and do not seek out misinformation or disinformation.
Business or professional accounts
With a business or professional account, the focus is on the audience. Professional organisations’ social media pages should ideally be informative about the business’ goals and values. They should engage potential and current customers without alienating them. Falling victim to misinformation or fake news with a professional or business account can have serious consequences, so being thorough and cautious before you post can go a long way.
The power of social media
Combating fake news on social media comes down to understanding the goals of fellow posters and of the platform itself. Suppose you represent a business using social media as a marketing platform. In that case, it’s important to keep your posts consistent with your brand and share on your timeline content that builds customer relationships, aligns with your values or showcases original content.
Fake news on social media may be unavoidable. Maintain a healthy level of curiosity for what you read on your feed, understand how social media platforms curate what you see and use investigative practices often. Social media is a powerful tool, for both businesses and individuals, when approached with appropriate intent and consideration.
UASA Independent Professionals encourages freelancers to be vigilant and cautious about the content they consume or share on social media to protect their business from falling victim to misinformation and disinformation. While social media is a powerful tool for business growth and marketing, it can also be a downfall, so tread carefully with it —it may destroy your business.
Ref: www.mailchimp.com www.uasaip.co.za