Fake Followers Under Fire on Social Media

The video discusses the prevalence of fake accounts on Twitter, highlighting that influence is bought and sold on the platform. It examines the extent of fake accounts, with Twitter admitting 5% of users are fake, while other estimates are higher. The impact of these accounts is significant due to their high activity. The video compares Twitter's issues with Facebook, noting Twitter's public nature makes it more visible. It also explores manipulation tactics, such as buying followers and using bots to amplify messages, emphasizing that this is a systemic problem affecting various sectors.

What percentage of Twitter users are estimated to be fake accounts according to Twitter's admission?

• 10%

• 5%

• 15%

• 1%

Why is the issue of fake accounts more visible on Twitter compared to Facebook?

• Twitter has more users than Facebook.

• Twitter's platform is more public, allowing for greater visibility.

• Facebook has better security measures.

• Twitter users report fake accounts more frequently.

What is one reason why Twitter is critical to information integrity?

• It is owned by a major media company.

• It has the most users worldwide.

• It is frequently monitored by journalists, amplifying its influence.

• It has the least number of fake accounts.

What is 'astroturfing' in the context of social media influence?

• A strategy for improving search engine rankings.

• A practice where corporations use fake accounts to simulate grassroots support.

• A technique for increasing genuine user engagement.

• A method of creating fake news articles.

How can fake accounts manipulate public opinion on social media?

• By blocking genuine user content.

• By creating fake news websites.

• By hacking into user accounts.

• By purchasing bots to spread specific messages.