A recent report from the International Panel on the Information Environment (IPIE) highlights social media owners, politicians, and governments as the primary threats to a trustworthy online news landscape. The report surveyed 412 experts across various academic fields and warned of the unchecked power social media platforms wield over content distribution and moderation. According to Philip Howard, a panel co-founder, such results pose a critical threat to the global flow of reliable information.

The report also raised concerns about major platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Allegations surfaced regarding biassed moderation, with Elon Musk’s X reportedly prioritising the owner’s posts and Meta being accused of neglecting non-English content. TikTok, under scrutiny for potential ties to the Chinese government, has consistently denied being an agent of any country. The panel emphasised that these platforms’ control over information significantly impacts public trust.

The survey revealed that around two-thirds of respondents anticipate the information environment will deteriorate, marking a noticeable increase in concern compared to previous years. Experts cited AI tools as a growing threat, with generative AI exacerbating the spread of misinformation. AI-generated videos and voice manipulation ranked as the top concerns, especially in developing countries with more acute impact.

However, not all views on AI are negative. Most respondents also saw its potential to combat misinformation by helping journalists sift through large datasets and detect false information. The report concluded by suggesting key solutions: promoting independent media, launching digital literacy initiatives, and enhancing fact-checking efforts to mitigate the negative trends in the digital information landscape.