Disinformation
The unchecked spread of falsehoods threatens democracy.
It’s an election year, and disinformation is in the news once again. This threat to our democracy comes at a time when social media platforms have scaled back their content moderation programs, and aggressive legal and legislative pressure from politicians has put a chill on counter-disinformation research and coordination.
This moment calls for innovative approaches to tackling false information, and PEN America is ready to support journalists, policy makers, and communities across the country.
What You Need to Know
During an election, disinformation can be used to smear an opponent for political gain, damage trust in our election system, and mobilize or suppress voter participation.
Technological advances like generative AI have made it easier than ever to produce and distribute deceptive content.
We believe that an empowered public and vibrant news ecosystem are the best means of countering disinformation’s pernicious effects.
2024 Election Resources
Vote informed this election year with these counter-disinformation resources.
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How to Vote and Combat Political Disinformation: A Tip Sheet for Election 2024
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A Guide to Developing a Healthier News Diet
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7 Top Election Year Disinformation Dangers, According to Experts
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The ‘Truth Sandwich’ and 11 Other Ways to Combat Election Misinformation with your Reporting
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‘I came from a country where we lost democracy’: What drives Tamoa Calzadilla’s commitment to facts
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PEN America’s primer for news consumers on spotting and combating disinformation when news breaks
As we navigate an onslaught of misleading content, it is vital that we all become more discerning consumers of information…
Everyone can help stop the spread of false information. Our conversation guide can show you how.
Facts Forward: Helping Journalists Fight Disinformation
PEN America has developed resources to help journalists detect, monitor, and report on disinformation and build greater trust with their communities.
Facts Forward Interview Series
This series features journalists and experts with extensive experience in navigating political and other forms of disinformation in order to provide best practices, insights into how to identify and counter disinformation, case studies, and other tips from practitioners.
On-Demand Webinars
Counter-Disinformation Resources
PEN America experts also featured in:
Journalists can’t win the fight against fake news without citizens’ help
The future of journalism stands at a crossroads. The solutions aren’t easy. But here’s the good news: Evidence shows numerous opportunities for citizens to pitch in.
Research & Reports
PEN America’s research on disinformation reveals troubling patterns of threats to free expression and democracy.
Online Safety Resources
Online Abuse Defense Training Program
Trainings for workplaces and other groups fighting online abuse and harassment.
Online Harassment Field Manual
Whether you’re experiencing or witnessing online abuse, this Field Manual offers concrete strategies for how to defend yourself and others.
Issue: Online Abuse & Digital Safety
Online abuse—from violent threats and hateful slurs to sexual harassment and doxing—poses a direct and pressing threat to free expression.
Our Experts
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Mina Haq
Consultant, Journalism and Disinformation