The Internet has long been a highly effective way to spread all manner of fibs, falsehoods and fake news. But these days, the web of deception seems ever more difficult for everyday users to untangle.
Just consider the rise of extremely convincing A.I.-generated photos or videos, like the recent deepfakes of Taylor Swift. Then there’s the world of influencers professing expertise they don’t have, like TikTok-ers claiming that sunscreen doesn’t actually protect your skin. Is it any wonder people are confused about what’s true and real?
And even if you feel somewhat confident that you can personally separate online fact from fiction or misinformation (false or misleading information), are you also sure that the kids and youth in your life have the skills, too?
If the thought gives you pause, you’re not alone. In fact, only 39 per cent of Canadian parents recently surveyed feel very or extremely confident in their ability to help their children navigate and address misinformation online. That’s according to research conducted in October 2024 on behalf of **, a national charity dedicated to engaging Canadian youth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
For 55 per cent of the parents surveyed, exposure to misinformation is a serious concern when it comes to their children’s online activity. But despite this, only 43 per cent of the respondents regularly have conversations about misinformation with their kids. The good news? It’s not too late to start—and there are great educational tools available to help.
“Misinformation is a widespread and very fast-growing issue,†says Jennifer Flanagan, CEO of Actua, who is one of Canada’s leading experts on STEM skills, as well as topics like online safety and digital citizenship. “Youth are particularly vulnerable because they are still developing critical thinking skills, and early exposure to misinformation can shape beliefs and behaviours, impacting education, mental health and overall well-being.â€
To help combat this growing challenge, Actua is involved in a campaign called , an initiative led by ScienceUpFirst. The aim is to boost awareness about misinformation and provide the tools we all need to identify, address and debunk it.
Running from November 12 to 17, Together Against Misinformation features virtual events and tools to help Canadians recognize and debunk misinformation in their communities. High school students can sign up for a “Spot the troll†webinar, for instance, while youth from grades 4 to 12 can attend a session called “How digital media influences us,†which discusses the impact of algorithms and online “echo chambers†and the long-term consequences of digital footprints.
It’s an endeavour that’s in high demand—and has huge potential to make a positive difference. According to an Ipsos poll from November 2022, 89 per cent of Canadian adults agree there needs to be more education on how to identify false information on social media. “Youth increasingly rely on social media for information, which can definitely expose them to misleading claims and false news,†says Flanagan. “They may encounter anti-science beliefs or reject mainstream science, affecting their ability to make good decisions now and in the future.â€
In addition to the Together Against Misinformation initiative, Actua offers a range of aimed at helping children, parents and educators determine what information is true or false. For example, is a digestible guide to the fundamentals of cyber safety, with tips tailored to specific age groups, designed to support parents and educators in keeping kids safer while they benefit from technology.
One key tip? Don’t trust everything you see online. In fact, Actua would go one step further and say not to trust anything you see online—if it’s not from a trusted source, that is. “When we approach information with a critical eye, we’re less likely to take things at face value and more likely to question the accuracy and intent,†Flanagan explains. “Consider who published the information, and if it’s not from a trusted source, be cautious and seek out additional sources.â€
If you haven’t talked with the kids and young people in your life about misinformation, there’s no better time than now—and thanks to Actua’s tip sheet and other resources, starting the conversation can be easier than you think. “If youth don’t have the tools and support they need to protect themselves from online threats, it will be increasingly difficult for them to use good judgment and make responsible choices,†says Flanagan. “Without support, they risk making poorly informed decisions that affect their well-being, beliefs and how they relate to the world around them.â€
This content was created by The Kit; Actua funded and approved it.
