DISINFORMATION IN ITALY: AN ANALYSIS OF FACT-CHECKING INITIATIVES AND THE IMPORTANCE OF MEDIA LITERACY AMONG ADOLESCENTS DURING THE LOCKDOWN

This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the disinformation in Italy during lockdown period, presenting the broader and detailed context surrounding the spread of misleading and false information in Italy. It emphasizes the urgent need to ensure adequate media literacy among young people during the lockdown period, a time when access to accurate information was fundamentally important. Additionally, it highlights the essential role of fact-checking and media literacy in counteracting the negative impact that fake news can have on society and democracy. It will address the consequences of spreading misleading information, illustrating how it can shape public opinion and erode trust in institutions and media outlets. Concrete examples of situations in which media literacy could have prevented harmful consequences will be provided, and the unique challenges Italy faces in addressing the spread of false information will be discussed. Key stakeholders involved in the fight against fake news in Italy and the significant initiatives taken to counter this harmful phenomenon will also be presented. Although concise, seeks to offer a complete and thorough view of the problem of fake news in Italy and the importance of adopting effective countermeasures through media literacy and fact-checking to ensure accurate information and a society grounded in truth. It is crucial to understand that fake news poses a growing threat to the social, political, and economic fabric of society. In the digital information era, the global spread of misleading information has intensified, generating confusion and uncertainty among individuals. Italy is not immune to this alarming trend. Therefore, it is essential to implement concrete measures to tackle this challenge and protect society from false and damaging news that can harm collective well-being.