Telegram, known for its openness and anonymity, has long been a leading platform for information dissemination. However, this freedom brings challenges: fake news, scam projects, and manipulation thrive in the unregulated flow of messages.

To tackle this issue, Telegram has announced the introduction of a fact-checking feature. Today, we'll examine whether this can be a real shield against misinformation or just a decorative addition.

The stream of news and fact-checking

Millions of users worldwide use Telegram for messaging, news updates, and participating in groups and channels. However, amidst this information flow, false news, political propaganda, and fake videos often slip through.

In recent months, there have been increasing instances where official Telegram channels have spread unchecked information, which later turned out to be false. Public channels chase speed, aiming to be the first to publish "hot" news, often at the expense of fact-checking. 

False information can cause real harm by manipulating public opinion, undermining trust in sources, and even pushing people toward dangerous actions. Thus, combating misinformation has become a pressing necessity.

Fact-checking involves verifying the accuracy of information, identifying factual errors, distortions, and manipulations. It includes analyzing information, comparing it with authoritative sources, and checking facts.

Fact-checking in social media and messengers

The idea of verifying information before publication is not new. Telegram is not the first to implement such a feature in a messenger or social network.

Similar mechanisms already exist in other messengers and social networks. Here are some examples:

Meta
Introduces labels "Verified by independent fact-checkers" for posts containing verified information and blocks the distribution of materials recognized as fake.

X
Uses a fact-checking system where users can report suspicious posts, which are then verified by experts.

Google
Includes "Fact-checking" labels in search results, allowing users to see verified data immediately.

TikTok
Develops algorithmic systems for content ranking and identifying potentially dangerous materials, including deep fakes.

The effectiveness of these tools in combating fake information is ambiguous. On one hand, they raise awareness, helping users critically assess information and spot fakes. On the other hand, their efficiency is limited due to the vast volume of information online.

Telegram’s plans 

A few weeks ago, a fact-checking option was spotted in Telegram's source code. The concept is as follows:

• Telegram grants local authorities permission to join the fact-checking system.
• Representatives of local authorities (agencies or authorized individuals) verify posts.
• After verification, they add a "Fact-check" label, where additional context or information can be included.

According to Telegram's founder, the news in a channel or chat will remain unchanged for all users. However, the fact-check label with additional context will be visible only to citizens of a specific country. This affiliation will be determined by the phone number linked to the Telegram account.

Information security in fact-checking 

While the fact-checking feature can be useful, it does not guarantee full protection against deepfakes. It will notify users about the risks of spreading deep fakes, for instance, by warning about the inaccuracy of videos or images. However, there are downsides — deep fakes are often difficult to distinguish from real videos or images, and fact-checking cannot always be certain of its results. From an information security and hygiene perspective, this feature is not very beneficial for users.

The focus here is more on processing and analyzing textual information. To protect against scammers and recognize deep fakes, a different approach is needed, as these involve media data: voice, video, or photos.

The most effective features from an information security standpoint are SCAM labels and anti-fraud measures that detect suspicious account activity. This is useful when, based on the IP address from which the user is logged in and their behavior, the account is temporarily blocked. Another useful feature is identifying suspicious links that may be potentially dangerous, such as phishing links.

Collaborating with independent fact-checking organizations

Collaborating with independent fact-checking organizations is a key strategy in combating misinformation. These organizations provide unbiased and thorough analyses of questionable claims circulating online. 

By integrating their databases and verification methods, Telegram can offer users a reliable way to cross-check information within the platform. Research has shown that users are more likely to trust and engage with content that has been independently verified. For instance, Facebook’s collaboration with third-party fact-checkers has significantly reduced the spread of false news stories. Implementing similar partnerships can enhance the credibility of information on Telegram, helping users to make more informed decisions.

More than just fact-checking

A key point in protecting against misinformation is improving users' media literacy. It's important to teach people to independently analyze information and distinguish truth from fiction. This requires developing critical thinking: learning to ask questions, analyze sources, and check facts. Additionally, developing media consumption skills is necessary: distinguishing news from entertainment materials, identifying advertisements and propaganda. And, of course, educating about digital technologies: understanding social media algorithms and mechanisms for spreading information.

Another important element is the development of independent fact-checking organizations. They play a crucial role in combating misinformation by conducting in-depth analysis of information, using a wide range of sources, experts, and verification methods. They publish the results of their work, providing an evidence base, helping to debunk myths and false claims. Furthermore, they also educate users, promote critical thinking, and contribute to media literacy development.