Fake News Cleaner in Taiwan is a grassroots organization dedicated to combating disinformation. Established in 2018, the group works to educate individuals, particularly seniors, about identifying fake news and the impact it can have on society. Through hosting events, lectures, and workshops, Fake News Cleaner has reached over 500 events across various communities in Taiwan. The organization aims to address the gaps in technology and knowledge that make older generations more susceptible to false information, with a focus on going offline and engaging with individuals face-to-face.
Taiwan, like many democratic societies, faces challenges with various types of disinformation. From health claims to political rumors, fake news can have a significant personal impact, especially on older individuals who may struggle to navigate the ever-changing tech landscape. Fake News Cleaner believes that tackling this issue requires a hands-on, patient approach that involves educating people about the algorithms and norms driving the platforms they use. By emphasizing offline engagement and respectful communication, the group aims to bridge the gap between generations and promote critical thinking skills to combat misinformation.
The organization was founded by Melody Hsieh and Shu-huai Chang, who were motivated by the divisive impact of fake news during Taiwan’s 2018 national referendum. They encountered numerous stories of families torn apart and businesses struggling due to false information. One such story involved a vegetable seller who saw his sales plummet after rumors spread that his products caused cancer, highlighting the real-world consequences of fake news. The impactful experiences of individuals affected by misinformation have fueled Fake News Cleaner’s mission to educate and empower people to think critically about the information they consume.
With just one formal employee and a team of volunteers, Fake News Cleaner has expanded its reach beyond seniors to college students, elementary school children, and various community groups. By hosting events at churches, temples, parks, and other public spaces, the group aims to engage with diverse audiences and raise awareness about the dangers of fake news. Through interactive lectures and workshops, they teach individuals how to identify and debunk false narratives, emphasizing the importance of verifying sources and understanding the motives behind sensational headlines.
The organization steers clear of politics and does not accept government funding to maintain neutrality in Taiwan’s polarized political environment. Instead, their focus is on practical topics like health, diet, and economic scams to appeal to a wide audience. By encouraging individuals to think critically about the content they consume, Fake News Cleaner hopes to foster a more informed and discerning society. Through their efforts, the group is making a significant impact at the grassroots level, empowering people of all ages to navigate the complex landscape of information and distinguish between truth and falsehood.
Ultimately, Fake News Cleaner’s work in Taiwan highlights the importance of combatting misinformation and promoting media literacy in the digital age. By engaging directly with communities, the organization is making a tangible difference in helping individuals, particularly seniors, navigate the vast sea of information available online. Through education, outreach, and advocacy, Fake News Cleaner is serving as a critical line of defense against the harmful effects of fake news on society, building a more informed and resilient population one event at a time.
