Exploring fake news awareness and trust in the age of social media among university student TikTok users

Abstract

This study explores the awareness of fake news and trust dynamics among University students on TikTok. Utilizing qualitative research through semi-structured interviews with University students in Vietnam, the findings reveal a generally acknowledged presence of fake news on TikTok, accompanied by varying levels of trust in the platform’s content. Key factors influencing trust include content creator credibility, user engagement, and familiarity with creators. Beyond academic implications, this research offers practical insights into the digital literacy, information consumption habits, and susceptibility to fake news among university students. The study advocates for heightened digital literacy education, encouraging critical evaluation of online content, not only benefiting the university demographic but contributing to broader public awareness.