Truth and Trust in the News: How Young People in Portugal and Finland Perceive Information Operations in the Media
Abstract
This study explores how young people in Finland and Portugal perceive media trust and vulnerability to information operations in the digital era. While both groups rely heavily on digital platforms for news, they view online sources as less reliable due to disinformation and fake news, especially on TikTok and Instagram. Trust and truth appear emotionally driven, with influencers and entertainment content often considered credible, increasing susceptibility to manipulation. Despite identifying as ‘digital natives’, participants rarely question source credibility or algorithmic influence, leaving them exposed to adversarial actors, such as Russia.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Misinformation and Its Impacts
Communication and COVID-19 Impact
Journalism and Media Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journalism and Media
- Volume
- 7
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 13–13
- Publication date
- 20 January 2026
- Language
- EN