Challenges in combating fake news in the digital media environment: A field study on communicators in Emirati media institutions

DOI: 10.46988/IJMMC.08.02.2026.04

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the factors contributing to the spread of fake news on digital
platforms, from the perspective of media communication professionals in the United Arab
Emirates, employing Network Theory as its theoretical base. organizational professional,
organizational, and technological elements play a role in curbing the spread of misleading
information. This is due to the increasing circulation of fake news in the digital
environment, despite the development of verification tools and increased professional
awareness. The study utilized a descriptive-analytical method and gathered data through an
electronic questionnaire from a targeted sample of 124 media professionals.
The findings revealed that the rapidity of publication, the tendency to react to current
events and digital competitive pressure are the key factors influencing the dissemination of
fake news. Additional factors include professional and organizational issues such as poor
adherence to verification processes, lack of effective internal communication, and
insufficient ongoing training. Additionally, the results indicated a statistically significant
relationship between the strength of internal network connectivity and the effectiveness of
news verification, and that combating fake news does not depend solely on content or
technical tools but is related to the network structure of communication within media
institutions. The study recommended the need to strengthen internal communication and
develop specialized training programs in digital verification, which would contribute to
building media networks that are more capable of countering fake news.