Fact Check: 47% of people see online influencers as major sources of false information.

Fact Check: "47% of people see online influencers as major sources of false information."

What We Know

A recent study published in the journal Health Information National Trends Survey indicates that a significant portion of social media users perceive false or misleading health information online. Specifically, the study found that 46% of respondents reported seeing "some" false or misleading health information, while 36% reported seeing "a lot" (Stimpson et al.). This suggests that a substantial number of social media users are aware of the prevalence of misinformation, but it does not directly confirm that 47% specifically view online influencers as major sources of false information.

In a broader context, a survey conducted by Ipsos indicated that 47% of U.S. adults encountered a significant amount of made-up news about COVID-19 (Redline Digital). This statistic reflects general perceptions of misinformation rather than a specific focus on influencers.

Analysis

The claim that "47% of people see online influencers as major sources of false information" is somewhat misleading. While the figure 47% is mentioned in relation to misinformation, it does not specifically pertain to influencers. The Ipsos survey results highlight a general perception of misinformation across various platforms, with social media being a significant source.

Moreover, the study by Stimpson et al. emphasizes that 67% of participants reported difficulty in assessing the truthfulness of health information on social media (Stimpson et al.). This indicates a broader issue with misinformation rather than pinpointing influencers as the primary culprits.

Additionally, a recent article from Phys.org noted that 57% of Australians view online influencers as major sources of misinformation, which is relevant but geographically specific and does not directly support the claim for the U.S. (Phys.org).

The reliability of the sources varies; the study from the Health Information National Trends Survey is based on a nationally representative sample, making it a credible source for understanding perceptions of misinformation. In contrast, the Ipsos survey provides useful insights but lacks specific details on how influencers were categorized in the context of misinformation.

Conclusion

The claim that "47% of people see online influencers as major sources of false information" is Partially True. While the 47% figure is relevant to perceptions of misinformation, it does not specifically address influencers as the primary source. The broader context of misinformation on social media is more complex, with many users expressing concerns about various sources, including influencers, but not exclusively attributing false information to them.

Fact Check: 47% of people see online influencers as major sources of false information.