In Taiwan, a group called Fake News Cleaner has been working tirelessly for nearly six years to combat the spread of disinformation and fake news. By setting up stalls in churches, temples, and parks, they offer free bars of soap as a metaphor for the scrubbing away of false information. Their mission is to educate people, particularly seniors, about the dangers of fake news and how to differentiate between fact and fiction. With just one formal employee and a team of volunteers, Fake News Cleaner has hosted over 500 events and reached out to college students, elementary-school children, and vulnerable seniors.
Disinformation in Taiwan is pervasive and affects every aspect of people’s lives. From health claims about supplements to rumors about major companies leaving the island, fake news can have a deep personal impact, especially on older individuals. The gaps created by generational differences and a constantly evolving tech landscape make it easier for fake news to thrive and cause division among communities. Fake News Cleaner aims to bridge these gaps by educating people offline about the algorithms and norms that drive the platforms they use.
While Taiwan already has established fact-checking organizations, many of the individuals most impacted by fake news are the least tech-savvy. Fake News Cleaner takes an old-school approach by reaching out to people in person and educating them about the dangers of misinformation. Through patience and respect, they aim to teach people how to critically analyze the information they come across online, especially sensational headlines and content farms that profit from spreading false narratives. The group focuses on everyday topics like health, diet, and economic scams to engage their audience effectively.
Fake News Cleaner’s efforts have proven to be effective in raising awareness and empowering individuals to question the information they encounter online. By going beyond fact-checking claims and focusing on the root causes of why fake news is so compelling, the group aims to strengthen family relationships and tech literacy. Through lectures, workshops, and community events, Fake News Cleaner has reached a wide range of people across Taiwan, from senior citizens to college students. Their dedication to combating disinformation is highlighted by personal stories of individuals who have been affected by fake news and misinformation.
By sharing personal experiences and engaging with their audience in a non-political manner, Fake News Cleaner has been able to make a significant impact in the fight against fake news in Taiwan. Through a combination of offline education and online resources, they aim to empower individuals to think critically about the information they consume. By teaching people to question the sources and motives behind sensational headlines and false narratives, Fake News Cleaner is helping to create a more informed and aware society, one person at a time.
As Taiwan continues to grapple with the challenges of disinformation and fake news, organizations like Fake News Cleaner are playing a crucial role in educating the public and fostering a culture of critical thinking. By addressing the personal impact of fake news, particularly among vulnerable populations like seniors, the group is making a significant difference in combating the spread of misinformation. Through their dedication and unwavering commitment, Fake News Cleaner is helping to create a more informed and resilient society in Taiwan.
