As real newspapers decline, fake news sites target veterans with ‘pink slime’

Military veterans and Americans across the nation rely on local news to stay connected and informed, but in today’s digital age, what looks like a trusted source might actually be a deception. A recent report by NewsGuard revealed that partisan-backed websites masquerading as local news outlets now outnumber genuine local newspapers in the United States.

Known as “pink slime” sites, these platforms often have innocuous names like The Boston Times or The Miami Chronicle. While they may appear neutral, many are funded by partisan groups from both sides of the political spectrum—or even by foreign actors, including networks tied to Russian interests.

The rise of these deceptive sites is amplified by their use of artificial intelligence to create fake stories and content, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish them from legitimate sources. This phenomenon has grown alongside the decline of traditional newspapers, which are closing at a rate of about two and a half per week, leaving communities with fewer reliable local news options.

Veterans are particularly vulnerable to such disinformation. Foreign actors and partisan groups often exploit veterans’ trust and sense of duty to spread misleading narratives. The lack of trusted local sources compounds the problem, increasing the likelihood of communities falling prey to misinformation.

To combat this, experts urge readers to verify sources, question stories from unfamiliar websites, and prioritize trusted outlets. A good rule of thumb is to rely on the local news organizations you grew up with—the ones your parents turned to for reliable reporting.

By staying vigilant and seeking out credible information, veterans can continue to honor the values they served to protect: truth, integrity, and responsible communication.