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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7 Top Election Year Disinformation Dangers, According to Experts
To discuss the serious dangers of disinformation ahead of Election Day, PEN America brought together top journalists and experts to shre the trends that worry them most.
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The ‘Truth Sandwich’ and 11 Other Ways to Combat Election Misinformation with your Reporting
PEN America’s Tim Richardson and Mina Haq joined Max Read of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue during a webinar hosted by Election SOS to show how misinformation spreads and how it can be reduced.
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‘I came from a country where we lost democracy’: What drives Tamoa Calzadilla’s commitment to facts
As an investigative journalist in Venezuela, Tamoa Calzadilla saw firsthand what happens when news and information become battlegrounds for autocracy.
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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…
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#FactChallenge: Media Literacy Course on WhatsApp Leading up to the 2024 Elections
This course is designed to familiarize audiences with fundamental media literacy concepts and help them navigate misinformation leading up to the presidential elections.
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.
Recent Commentary
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A Guide to Developing a Healthier News Diet
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Political disinformation is everywhere. Here’s what most alarms the experts.
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7 Top Election Year Disinformation Dangers, According to Experts
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.
Counter-Disinformation Resources
Guide: How to Build Relationships with Local Journalists, According to Journalists
78% of adults have never even spoken to a journalist. To help address this missed opportunity, PEN America surveyed journalists… More >>
Guide: Combating Campus Protest Mis/Disinformation
Mis- and disinformation are spreading in the wake of the growing wave of protests on college and university campuses over… More >>
Guide to Avoiding Disinformation Regarding the Ongoing Crisis in Israel and Gaza
We are facing an unprecedented wave of mis- and disinformation spreading online through social media. More >>
Community Disinformation Action Hub
Tools for community leaders and anyone who wants to learn what disinformation is and take action in their community to stop it More >>
How to Talk to Friends and Family Who Share Misinformation
While some people create and spread disinformation, your friends and family may well spread misinformation, which is shared by people who may not know the information is false. More >>
On-Demand Webinars
Research & Reports
PEN America’s research on disinformation reveals troubling patterns of threats to free expression and democracy.
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Building Resilience
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Impact Report
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Hard News
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Faking News
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.
