Kaspersky: Sharing Unverified Content Fuels Fake News Spread

On the International Day against Fake News, cybersecurity firm Kaspersky warned that sharing information without verifying it—even with disclaimers like "I don't know if it's true, but I'm sending it"—can keep fake news alive and expand its reach. The company's "Digital Language" study reveals a significant gap in Latin America: while 71% of people claim to know what fake news is, only 56% believe they could actually identify it Source: Hoy.

The trust factor

Kaspersky highlights that trust in the sender often substitutes for verification. When a message comes from a friend or family member, recipients assume someone else has checked it, but that person may have also forwarded it without verifying. Each forward adds a layer of apparent legitimacy, making the content seem more credible Source: El Dinero.

Where misinformation spreads

According to the study, 77% of those familiar with fake news encountered it on social media in the past year, and 46% via messaging app groups. These channels allow content to move rapidly, often detached from its original source. Screenshots, old photos, or out-of-context videos can be repurposed to support false narratives Source: Listín Diario.

Emotional triggers

Kaspersky also points to emotional manipulation: content that provokes fear, outrage, or urgency prompts users to react before verifying. Phrases like "share before it's deleted" or "this just happened" are designed to accelerate sharing. The company advises users to pause and check the source before forwarding, as the challenge lies not only in recognizing fake news but also in resisting the urge to share it Source: Hoy.