Understand Media Business Models

Over 2,000 AI-generated deepfake videos circulated during 2024 global elections, from fake Biden robocalls to AI-generated hurricane disinformation.

Conservative media outlet Newsmax agreed August 18, 2025, to pay Dominion Voting Systems $67 million for broadcasting false claims about rigged 2020 election, following Fox News's $787 million settlement. The admission of defamation comes as Trump announces plans to eliminate mail-in ballots nationwide, with Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy admitting privately that "everyone knew the election fraud claims were bullshit but ratings were too good."

Former Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake was illegally appointed acting CEO of Voice of America on August 13, 2025, despite federal law requiring Senate confirmation for the position. Lake, who has called for dismantling the U.S. Agency for Global Media, now controls America's international broadcasting to 300 million people worldwide. Legal experts confirm the appointment violates the Smith-Mundt Act, but the administration argues "acting" positions don't require confirmation.

Verify whether news sources and websites are trustworthy. Essential for school research and avoiding fake news.

Use reliable methods to verify if something is true. Protect yourself from misinformation everywhere.

Recognize when media, ads, or people are trying to influence you unfairly. Stay in control of your own opinions.

Understand graphs, statistics, and data presentations. Useful for school projects and informed decisions.

Track down where information actually comes from. Great research skill for any project.

Judge whether websites, social media posts, and online claims are reliable. Stay safe and informed online.