Disinformation, fake news and cybersecurity in times of pandemic

The current situation we live in due to the pandemic of COVID-19 has led to the confinement of the majority of the population, who have spent more time at home and, therefore, more time online. Most of the contacts made, even with those closest to them, are now made through video calls, audiovisual and online media, and the use of social networks has also intensified. Disinformation, fake news and cybersecurity are increasingly dominant themes, in an environment of concern and uncertainty where information proliferates that can cause damage not only socially, but also in terms of public health.

It is in this context that the GILM - Informal Group on Media Literacy will hold from May 3rd to 9th the 8th edition of the "7 Days with the Media" initiative, this year without leaving home, of which the FCT Safe Internet Center is a partner. At a time when the media are almost the only access to the world, to what happens and surrounds the population, its role becomes even more fundamental. Thus, this initiative challenges citizens and institutions to promote some form of action, reflection and/or discussion about the media, its performance and effects on individual and collective life.

In addition to making proposals and sharing their materials and activities, participants can also take part in the "GILM Challenges" that will be launched around the themes of disinformation, fake news, and cybersecurity.

The initiative is supported by the Communication and Society Research Center, the UNESCO National Commission, the National Education Council, the Directorate-General for Education, the Directorate-General for Books, Archives and Libraries, the Media Regulatory Authority, the National Reading Plan, the School Libraries Network, RTP, the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, and the Media, Information and Literacy Observatory.

More information in 7 days with the Media