Checker News: combatendo a perpetuação das notícias falsas na internet sobre a Covid-19

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic brought to society challenges greater than one could imagine. Amid a fearful scenario, contrary to the fight against Covid-19, other issues emerged. It became necessary to confront the spread of fake news that has been proliferating on the internet. In the case of Covid-19, there is a lot of incorrect information. Disinformation makes people more vulnerable to the disease. In this context, the Checker News project provided services to the community in three ways: 1) promotion of reliable information about Covid-19 through the social media platform Instagram; 2) creation of an educational guide to combat fake news (ebook); and 3) development of an educational software for Android smartphones. The overall objective was to contribute to the dissemination of reliable information about Covid-19, encouraging autonomy in news verification through scientific knowledge and technological tools. The results reveal the various benefits of scientific dissemination: 1) ensured accessibility to information to deal with new challenges in the adverse scenario of the pandemic; 2) increased the visibility of science beyond the walls of educational institutions and research centers; and 3) sparked interest in society for content that advocates against the spread of fake news on the internet. Regarding the products (ebook and software), the instructions for fact-checking helped society to act responsibly and consciously by prioritizing scientific knowledge. Finally, the actions do not end with dissemination but require social and civic responsibility during and after the pandemic; therefore, access to content with scientific rigor is essential. There is a need for greater incentives for projects and actions that prioritize the understanding and dissemination of science.