Do you even know what you’re sharing, bruh?

In today’s digital landscape, viral videos are not always what they appear to be. Whether through clever editing or hasty sharing, the potential for misinformation has grown exponentially, often leaving viewers unaware of what is real and what is not.

Take, for instance, a recent viral video featuring pop icon Michael Jackson seemingly dodging Oprah Winfrey’s questions during a famous 1993 interview by breaking into song.

The clip, which has been widely shared on social media, is not authentic. It’s the result of an old editing technique known as a split screen. This method, used since the early days of film, involves splitting the footage to make it appear as though something occurred that never actually did.

In this case, the creator combined two separate moments from the interview: Oprah asking questions and Michael singing. While the video may be a comedic hit, it’s a prime example of how simple it is to manipulate content and create entirely fabricated scenes.

The Problem of Blind Sharing

Adding to the issue is the growing trend of mindless sharing on social media. On Instagram alone, over 50% of videos shared by users are not even watched by the person sending them. This behavior reflects the overwhelming abundance of online content and the lack of time to engage with it meaningfully.

“Honestly, I’m guilty of this too,” one social media expert said. “If I see a video titled ‘Cute Penguin Rescue,’ I’ll send it to my mom without even watching it myself.”

This kind of blind sharing allows misleading or outright fake content to spread quickly, often driven by an appealing thumbnail or title. Without verifying the content, users can inadvertently participate in the dissemination of misinformation.

A Call for Media Literacy

The consequences of these habits extend beyond comedy videos. In a time when many people rely on social media for news, the inability to discern fact from fiction has serious implications. Whether it’s a humorous edit or politically charged content, altered footage can shape perceptions and influence public opinion.

Experts urge viewers to develop a critical eye and question the authenticity of what they see online. “Think for yourself,” one advocate advised. “Whether it’s for laughs or something more serious, it’s becoming a real problem not knowing what’s real.”

As social media platforms continue to evolve, so too must our approach to consuming and sharing content. Ensuring that videos are viewed critically—and shared responsibly—will be key in combating the spread of misinformation.