EU Study Reveals Higher Disinformation Spread on X (Formerly Twitter) Compared to Other Social Media Platforms
BRUSSELS – A recent pilot study conducted by the European Union’s analytics firm, TrustLab, has revealed a concerning trend: false information spreads more readily on X (formerly Twitter) compared to other social media platforms. The study, which focused on activities in Poland, Slovakia, and Spain, examined posts containing "disinformation keywords" across Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, and X, evaluating the veracity of the information against established fact-check websites. The research encompassed a range of topics including politics, healthcare, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Preliminary findings indicate that posts containing false information on X and YouTube consistently garnered higher engagement levels than factual posts, while TikTok exhibited the opposite pattern.
The study’s methodology involved TrustLab teams in each country identifying and tracking posts containing predetermined disinformation keywords across the selected platforms. These posts were then cross-referenced with reputable fact-checking websites to determine the accuracy of the information presented. This meticulous approach provided valuable insights into the prevalence and engagement patterns associated with misinformation on each platform. The pilot study’s findings are intended to serve as a benchmark for future, more comprehensive research encompassing a wider range of countries and topics. This expanded scope aims to offer a more nuanced understanding of disinformation dynamics across different socio-political contexts.
European Commission VP for Values and Transparency, Vera Jourova, responded to the study’s findings with a strong statement, expressing particular concern over X’s performance. She emphasized the urgent need for social media platforms to take more proactive measures to combat the spread of misinformation. Jourova explicitly called out the persistent presence of Russian propaganda and disinformation on online platforms, highlighting the gravity of the situation and its connection to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. "The Kremlin fights with bombs in Ukraine, but with words everywhere else, including in the EU," she declared, underscoring the far-reaching impact of disinformation campaigns.
The timing of this report coincides with X’s removal of a feature allowing users to self-report political misinformation on the platform. This move has raised concerns among experts who fear it may further exacerbate the spread of false narratives, particularly as it seemingly contradicts the findings of the EU’s study which indicates a need for more, not less, user engagement in flagging disinformation. Furthermore, X’s withdrawal from the European Commission’s Code of Practice—a self-regulatory initiative aimed at combating disinformation—adds another layer of complexity to the issue.
While Meta, YouTube, TikTok, and LinkedIn actively participate in the Code of Practice, X’s departure, following Elon Musk’s takeover, signifies a notable shift in the platform’s approach to content moderation and disinformation control. This divergence from collaborative efforts to combat misinformation raises questions about X’s commitment to addressing the issue and its willingness to cooperate with regulatory bodies. The removal of the self-reporting feature alongside X’s withdrawal from the Code of Practice paints a concerning picture regarding the platform’s approach towards mitigating the spread of disinformation.
The implications of these developments are far-reaching, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape. The proliferation of misinformation can destabilize democratic processes, erode public trust, and even incite violence. Addressing this challenge requires a concerted effort from social media platforms, policymakers, and civil society organizations alike. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the task of combating disinformation will require continuous adaptation, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to upholding the truth. The EU’s ongoing research into this complex issue will undoubtedly play a crucial role in informing future strategies and policies aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation and safeguarding democratic values.