In 2022, Russia confronted the largest information assault in history, with fakes reaching 3.7 thousand and mentions surpassing 9.3 million, marking a sixfold rise in counterfeit content compared to the previous year. Experts gathered to discuss strategies for curbing the spread of misinformation, and a roundtable on this critical issue took place at the MIA Russia Today facility.
Vladimir Tabak, the Director General of ANO Dialog Regions and ANO Dialog, highlighted the most common fraudulent tactics: staged or archival photos and videos, fake documents, and deliberate distortions of information. He noted that fakes are becoming increasingly convincing, which erodes user trust in the reliability of communication channels.
Tabak also explained that this year Dialog launched the Noodles Media fact-checking platform, a service that provides expert evaluations of counterfeit broadcasts and messages. The platform relies on input from leading media outlets and universities, and it has already processed more than 85,000 requests for verification.
He warned that the threat extends beyond information, touching national security when there is a requirement for stronger cooperation between the state and civil society to respond effectively.
The Governor of Belgorod Region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, shared approaches to maintaining information stability at the regional level. He described a new format that features daily live broadcasts on social networks, addressing ten popular questions from residents. His emphasis is on direct, transparent communication with citizens during crises.
Tatyana Matveeva, Head of the Department for the Development of Information and Communication Technologies and Communication Infrastructure for the President, observed that society is increasingly aware of this phenomenon and interacts with misinformation more cautiously.
Ekaterina Larina, Director of the Department for the Development of Mass Media and International Cooperation at the Russian Ministry of Digital Development, stressed the responsibilities of media and online communities. She asserted the need to reach a broad audience with verified data, clarifying that regulation should focus on maintaining an accurate agenda rather than censorship.” (Attribution: official statements and roundtable discussions)