Approach to the Consumption of Fake News. The Case of Ecuador

In the digital age, news consumption has undergone a radical transformation, providing instant access to an overwhelming amount of information. However, this phenomenon is not without its challenges, and one of the most pressing problems is the rampant spread of fake news. The phenomenon of fake news not only undermines the integrity of the information flow, but also poses serious threats to society, affecting decision-making, public trust and democratic stability. In this context, this research presents the importance and relevance of fake news consumption, analysing its profound implications and reflecting on the measures needed to address this contemporary challenge. At a time when information has become a vital resource, understanding the threat of fake news becomes essential to safeguard the integrity of an informed society. The methodology is quantitative through a survey conducted via a Google form, between 23 May 2022 and 31 January 2023. A total of 263 participations were received. It is concluded that the social actors that generate the most disinformation are political leaders and people who spread fake news. In the predominant practices of news consumption, a daily dedication to learn about the reality of the country stands out. The most used social networks are WhatsApp and Instagram. The sources of information that generate trust come from the media and state information. In the fight against information, it is important to contrast messages on social networks with the news published in the media.