Scripps News Launches Disinformation Desk to Combat Misinformation in the Digital Age
ATLANTA – In an era of rampant misinformation and the looming threat of deepfakes, Scripps News is taking a decisive step to bolster journalistic integrity and public trust. The network announced the launch of its dedicated Disinformation Desk, a six-member team tasked with uncovering the sources of disinformation and tracing its dissemination across various platforms. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as the 2024 election cycle intensifies and the proliferation of generative AI technologies adds fuel to the fire of false narratives.
The Disinformation Desk, slated to formally commence operations in June, will be helmed by Liz Landers, a seasoned journalist and former chief political correspondent for Vice News. Landers brings a wealth of experience in navigating the complex landscape of political reporting and will lead the team’s efforts to expose disinformation campaigns targeting the electoral process. She will be joined by a diverse group of experts, including media correspondent Kadia Tubman, whose focus will be on understanding how disinformation spreads through various media channels. Nick Refuerzo, a producer/editor and graphic artist, will be instrumental in visually presenting complex information and creating compelling narratives. Cameron Couvillion will serve as the team’s researcher and editorial producer, while Linda Pattillo, deputy managing editor for investigations and global affairs, and Steve Turnham, Scripps Washington bureau chief and managing editor, will provide oversight and guidance.
The Disinformation Desk’s mandate extends beyond the political arena, encompassing a broad range of critical areas. From economic and social issues to national security and international affairs, the team will investigate and expose false narratives that threaten to undermine public discourse and societal well-being. Recognizing the transformative potential—and the inherent risks—of emerging technologies, the desk will place a particular emphasis on the role of generative AI in amplifying the spread of disinformation. This includes examining how AI-powered tools can be used to create and disseminate convincing but fabricated content, such as deepfakes, which can erode public trust and manipulate public opinion.
Transparency and accountability are paramount to the Disinformation Desk’s mission. Christina Hartman, vice president and head of Scripps News, emphasized that the team will not only expose disinformation but also provide audiences with a clear understanding of the methodologies and verification processes employed in their investigations. This commitment to transparency aims to build public confidence in the team’s findings and promote greater media literacy among consumers. By explaining how conclusions about the veracity of information are reached, the desk hopes to empower individuals to critically evaluate the information they encounter and distinguish between credible reporting and manipulative falsehoods.
The launch of the Disinformation Desk underscores Scripps News’ commitment to combating misinformation and fostering a more informed citizenry. As a co-founder and co-presenter of National News Literacy Week, in partnership with the News Literacy Project, Scripps has consistently demonstrated its dedication to promoting critical thinking and responsible information sharing. This new initiative builds upon that foundation, providing a dedicated platform for investigative journalism focused on exposing the dangers of disinformation in the digital age.
The Disinformation Desk’s work is not just about debunking false claims; it’s about safeguarding the integrity of information and protecting the public from manipulation. In an increasingly complex media environment, where discerning truth from falsehood can be challenging, initiatives like this are essential for maintaining a healthy democracy and fostering informed public discourse. By investing in high-quality investigative reporting and emphasizing transparency, Scripps News aims to equip citizens with the tools they need to navigate the information landscape and make informed decisions based on facts, not fiction. The team’s multi-faceted approach, combining investigative journalism with media analysis and a focus on emerging technologies, promises to make the Disinformation Desk a vital resource in the fight against misinformation.
This expansion of investigative journalism highlights the changing landscape of news reporting and the increasing need for dedicated resources to combat misinformation. The Disinformation Desk intends to be a pivotal force in this struggle, upholding journalistic ethics, fostering public trust, and ensuring the dissemination of accurate information in an increasingly challenging media landscape. The initiative represents a significant investment in the future of journalism, one that recognizes the critical role of news organizations in protecting the public from the harmful effects of disinformation. As generative AI and other technologies continue to evolve, the work of the Disinformation Desk will become increasingly important in helping individuals distinguish between credible information and deceptive narratives. The team’s efforts will not only expose the sources and methods of disinformation but also contribute to a broader public understanding of the challenges posed by misinformation in the digital age.