New tool helps journalists fight smear campaigns
Faktograf, the first and only fact-checking media in Croatia, and IPI, a global organisation dedicated to the promotion and protection of press freedom and the improvement of journalism practice, have launched an online guide to give journalists, fact-checkers and researchers a handy framework to investigate disinformation and smear campaigns targeting media professionals on the frontlines of exposing disinformation.
The Guide to Decoding Disinformation offers a step-by-step approach to identifying the tactics, techniques and procedures behind disinformation campaigns, increasingly used to silence critical reporting and erode public trust in fact-based news. The guide aims to help journalists and fact-checkers preserve the integrity of their work.
Says Tajana Broz, programme manager at Faktograf:
As new technologies emerge, the disinformation playbook used by bad actors still relies on common tactics and narratives. These guidelines aim to support journalists in finding the best ways to investigate them.
Javier Luque, head of digital communications at IPI, said: ‘These guidelines are not one-size-fits-all as disinformation keeps evolving with new technologies. However, this guide is a starting point to identify the main components of disinformation campaigns targeting journalists and their credibility.’
Key steps outlined in the Guide:
- Understand the context. Evaluate broader strategies, relevant events, political and social contexts and the media outlets involved
- Analyse the timeline, platforms and dissemination methods. Develop a comprehensive timeline of the attack, identify platforms and vectors used and document the spread of disinformation
- Identify the actors involved. Identify and describe influential actors and fringe media supporting the disinformation narrative
- Pinpoint the narratives. Fact-check claims, analyse content and track false narratives to understand the purpose behind the campaign
As a dynamic resource, the Guide will be regularly updated to incorporate new research and technological advancements
