Disinformation Deep Dive: Tech Platforms and International Strategies

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' host Kodie, Arthur, and Joe delve into the ways disinformation spreads across social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter (now X), Google, TikTok, and Reddit. They discuss the efforts these companies have made, or failed to make, in combating disinformation. The conversation touches on the larger implications of these actions, referencing real-world events like the U.S.'s recent military parade and its portrayal in the media. The episode also contrasts the approaches of different nations, highlighting Finland's robust educational strategies against disinformation and contrasting them with the current U.S. situation. The episode concludes with a tease of upcoming discussions on NGOs and citizen-led initiatives to counter disinformation.

00:00 Introduction to Propaganda Loves You

00:40 Deep Dive into Disinformation

01:45 Current Events: Israel and Iran Conflict

06:50 Disinformation Tactics and Technology Platforms

09:07 Meta's Role in Combating Disinformation

13:34 Challenges and Criticisms of Social Media Companies

22:01 The State of Twitter Under Elon Musk

30:54 Google's Efforts Against Nation-State Hackers

31:32 Google's Moderation Efforts and Challenges

32:53 TikTok's Influence and Algorithm Concerns

34:19 Reddit's Role in Disinformation

36:02 The European Union's Digital Services Act

36:36 The Battle Between Free Speech and Platform Responsibility

38:04 The Scale of Data Tracking and AI Concerns

47:16 Finland's Approach to Combating Disinformation

53:49 The US and Russia's Role in Modern Disinformation

57:59 Upcoming Topics and Final Thoughts

Additional sources for this episode

https://www.thenerdreich.com/author/gil/

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/10/world/europe/finland-misinformation-classes.html

https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/facebook-owner-meta-will-block-access-russias-rt-sputnik-eu-2022-02-28/

https://www.the-independent.com/tech/russia-youtube-state-media-ban-b2034222.html

https://www.technologyreview.com/2019/09/26/434/whatsapp-disinformation-message-forwarding-politics-technology-brazil-india-election/