When Facts Fade: Student Views on the Dangers of Fake News


Students voices on fake news and its societal impact.

by JANAANEE SUNDRAM & DR AHMAD SAUFFIYAN BIN ABU HASAN

Monday, 13 April 2026 | 12.38 PM MYT


Tanjung Malim, 13 April – The Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), through its Kampus Sultan Azlan Shah, at approximately 12:00 p.m., an interview was conducted with two university students, Siti Nur Alia and Rahah, to explore their opinions on the dangers of fake news and its impact on society. The purpose of the interview was to understand how students perceive misinformation, why it spreads, and how it affects individuals and communities.

According to Siti Nur Alia, fake news poses a serious threat as it can easily influence public opinion and create unnecessary panic. She explained that many people tend to share information without verifying its authenticity, especially on social media platforms. This behaviour, she noted, contributes to the rapid spread of false information, making it difficult to distinguish between truth and misinformation.

Similarly, Rahah highlighted that fake news can damage trust within society. She pointed out that when people are repeatedly exposed to false information, they may begin to doubt even credible sources. This erosion of trust, she added, can lead to confusion and misinformed decisions, particularly in important matters such as health, politics, and safety.

Both students agreed that awareness and education are key solutions to addressing this issue. They emphasised the importance of critical thinking and encouraged individuals to verify information before sharing it.

In conclusion, the interviews reveal that fake news is not just a minor issue but a growing concern that significantly affects society. Students today are aware of its dangers and recognise the need for responsible information sharing in the digital age.