Fighting disinformation: Can You Believe It?

Can You Believe It? is an initiative dedicated to uncovering how disinformation reaches consumers and providing tools to help our audience fight its spread. Are you seeing disinformation in your social media feeds? Share with us by emailing tell@mpr.org.

Violent threats against public officials are rising. Here's why
A Utah man was killed by federal agents this week after making violent threats against President Biden and other officials. Experts worry that heated political rhetoric is leading to more threats.
U.S. is barred from combating disinformation on social media. Here's what it means
Under a judge's new ruling, much of the federal government is now barred from working with social media companies to address removing any content that might contain "protected free speech."
From 4chan to international politics, a bug-eating conspiracy theory goes mainstream
The conspiracy theory alleges that a shadowy global elite conspires to control the world's population, in part by forcing them to eat insects. It's being cited by politicians in several countries.
An activist group is spreading misinformation to stop solar projects in rural America
An NPR/Floodlight investigation found that a longtime Republican insider is stoking solar opposition by spreading bad information about health and environmental risks. Her influence is growing.
Right-wing 'zombie' papers attack Illinois Democrats ahead of elections
Printed newspapers sent out across Illinois push Republican talking points against Democrats just in time for election season. They're taking advantage of the erosion of local news.
Voting officials: Misinformation fueling election skepticism
Across Minnesota, county officials are encountering people questioning the results of the 2020 election and demanding changes to the voting process, even though there is no proof of widespread fraud or other problems.