Social media is feeding us lies, and our brains love it

Ever wonder why misinformation seems to spread like wildfire while accurate information struggles to gain traction? It turns out there’s a systemic reason for that—bad news spreads six times faster than the truth.

So how does this happen? Experts say it’s a combination of human psychology and technology.

The Psychology Behind Misinformation

Our brains are wired to seek out and share information that confirms what we already believe—a tendency known as confirmation bias. People are more likely to engage with content that aligns with their emotions and personal opinions, even if it’s misleading.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, false claims about cures, fabricated research, and fraudulent health advice flooded social media. This wave of misinformation eroded trust in facts, particularly among federal employees, veterans, and the general public.

When someone shares false or misleading content, social media algorithms amplify the problem. These platforms are designed to show users more of what they engage with, meaning misinformation is continuously reinforced within certain online communities. The more people interact with a misleading post, the wider it spreads—reaching others who are already inclined to believe it.

How to Stop the Spread of Misinformation

Experts recommend taking a few key steps to avoid falling for and spreading false information:

🔹 Be aware of personal bias – Misinformation is often crafted to trigger emotional responses, making it feel more believable. Take a step back and analyze whether a post is playing to your emotions.

🔹 Double-check before sharing – If a post doesn’t cite a credible source, it may not be reliable. Always verify information with trusted news outlets or fact-checking organizations before reposting.

🔹 Recognize how algorithms work – Social media platforms push content based on engagement, not accuracy. Understanding this can help users make more informed decisions about what they choose to share.

As misinformation continues to evolve, digital literacy is more important than ever—especially for communities like veterans, who are often targeted by false narratives. Staying informed, questioning sources, and thinking critically about online content can help slow the spread of bad information before it does real damage.