Fake news remains one of the most pressing challenges for democratic societies, with two-thirds of people in the UK (65%) expressing concern about how disinformation undermines democracy. The issue extends beyond national borders, as nearly half (45%) of respondents worry about the global impact of fake news on democratic systems, according to research conducted by Readly, a digital magazine and newspaper app.
The consequences of fake news are far-reaching, with the public identifying threats to national security and confusion over global health issues as the most significant risks. Nearly half (47%) of respondents believe that disinformation originating overseas can compromise national security, while 44% are concerned about the reliability of online information related to global health crises. These findings underscore the growing anxiety over the societal and political damage caused by the unchecked spread of false information.
“When trust erodes, uncertainty grows – and that makes societies more vulnerable to targeted disinformation,” said Chris Couchman, Head of Content at Readly. “But research shows that people want trustworthy information and they are actively seeking it. The data underlines the essential role that editorial teams play in countering disinformation. All the more important to strengthen journalism – and make trustworthy formats more visible.”
Financial toll on media
The rise of fake news is not only a societal issue but also a financial one for the media industry. As disinformation spreads, it diverts audience attention and advertising revenue away from legitimate news organizations to unreliable sources. This economic strain is compounded by the fact that many newsrooms are being forced to cut back on fact-checking resources due to financial pressures. At the same time, digital platforms are scaling back their fact-checking programs, leaving a critical gap in the fight against disinformation.
Available readings on Readly. Image: Readly’s webpage.
“Fact-checking is essential in the fight against disinformation – yet it is being scaled back in many places. The reasons are economic, the consequences are societal,” Couchman added. “Education, journalism, and digital platforms must take joint responsibility – only then can we rebuild long-term trust.”
The research highlights a double-edged challenge for the media industry: a public that demands reliable, fact-checked information, and a shrinking infrastructure for verifying facts. Nearly nine in ten people (89%) said it is important to them to access news and articles from trusted publishers that prioritize investigative journalism and fact-checking. However, the financial strain on newsrooms and the growing prevalence of fake news threaten to undermine the media’s ability to meet these expectations.
Information fatigue
The overwhelming volume of information in today’s media landscape is also taking a toll on audiences. A third of respondents (32%) reported feeling overwhelmed by the constant stream of negative news, while 31% said they are turning to lighter content, such as celebrity news and lifestyle features, to escape the negativity. Nearly half (44%) admitted to taking conscious breaks from following the news, not out of apathy, but to regain clarity and manageability in their media consumption.
Available readings on Readly. Image: Readly’s webpage.
This trend reflects a growing tension between the need for reliable information and the emotional toll of navigating a complex and often overwhelming media environment. It also highlights the importance of strengthening media literacy and ensuring access to trustworthy news sources.
The fight against fake news requires a collective effort from journalists, educators, and digital platforms. Strengthening media literacy, investing in fact-checking, and ensuring access to reliable information are critical steps in rebuilding public trust and safeguarding the media industry’s financial future.
As Couchman emphasized, “Education, journalism, and digital platforms must take joint responsibility. Only then can we rebuild long-term trust.” Without decisive action, the societal and economic costs of fake news will continue to grow, further endangering the future of quality journalism and the democratic principles it upholds.
