Protecting yourself from misinformation: What to know and how to spot it

Have you ever seen a social media post that was so captivating that you just had to share it?  

Maybe it was a powerful video, a striking image or a headline that made you stop scrolling.   

But was it true? In a world where artificial intelligence can generate photos, videos and even voices, it’s becoming harder to know what’s real and what isn’t.

In fact, it’s become so challenging to tell truth from fiction that many colleges are offering classes in how to spot misinformation and digital manipulation. 

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two professors about how technology is being used to mislead and how to avoid being fooled by fake images, videos and stories. 

Guests:

• Bob Groven is a professor and Co-Chair of the Department of Communication Studies, Film and New Media at Augsburg University. He teaches the class “Defense Against the Dark Arts,” which aims to help students recognize and protect themselves from misinformation and disinformation. He is also a strategic communication consultant with over 15 years of experience in leading political campaigns. 

• Lana Medina is a journalist, researcher and educator. She teaches media literacy at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. Her work explores how social media algorithms, AI and newsroom pressures shape local journalism and civic discourse. 

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.