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70% of Americans See Online Misinformation as Major Threat

8/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Pew Research Center survey shows 70% of Americans consider online false information a major threat.
Democrats prioritize climate change, while Republicans focus on terrorism.
Overall, Americans view these threats as less significant than in previous years, with decreased concern over terrorism and infectious diseases since 2020.

History

Historical Context

The September 11 attacks in 2001 transformed American views on security, elevating terrorism as a primary concern. This shift has evolved, with a 2020 Pew Research Center survey revealing that 70% of Americans now regard online misinformation as a significant threat, reflecting changing public priorities and highlighting the urgent need for improved media literacy and regulatory measures against misinformation.

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Story summary

A Pew Research Center survey shows 70% of Americans consider online false information a major threat.
Democrats prioritize climate change, while Republicans focus on terrorism.
Overall, Americans view these threats as less significant than in previous years, with decreased concern over terrorism and infectious diseases since 2020.

1 / 2