The Saudi Public Dealings with False News, Published on Social Media

Abstract

Objectives: The study aimed to find out the awareness of the Saudi public about the seriousness of false news published through social networking sites, and how they deal with this news.

Methods: The study relied on the descriptive methodology, where the questionnaire tool was used to collect information from the sample members, which were chosen by random probability from the Saudi public. The questionnaire was distributed to groups on Twitter and WhatsApp, and (124) individuals responded. One of the most important questions asked were the true role played by social networking sites in spreading false news, and what are the most important ways in which the public deals with this news.

Results: The study found that the majority of respondents agree with a very high degree that social networking sites have increased the speed of spread and circulation of false news. The study concluded that confronting false news with correct facts, data, and information from relevant authorities and jurisdiction helps limit its spread. 

Conclusions: The study recommended the need to investigate news, and rely on reliable sources to obtain news from social networking sites and not repeat it and re-publish it, only after verifying its authenticity. The need to enact deterrent laws to punish publishers and promoters of false news, benefit from the experiences of other countries at the regional and international levels in the field of combating false news and prevent its dangers.