Exploring Fake News Sharing among Malaysian University Students: Role of Uses and Gratification Theory

Abstract

Fake news, portrayed as accurate but actually false or misleading, spreads through fabricated stories, altered media, and automated programs. This study explores the dissemination of fake news among Malaysian university students using the Uses and Gratification Theory (UGT). Data from 111 participants reveal how personal motivations, as identified by UGT, influence the spread of misinformation. The study highlights the link between individual motivations and fake news propagation by understanding students' media consumption reasons. These findings offer practical insights for policymakers and educators to develop strategies that combat misinformation and improve media literacy in academic settings.