Article/News

Journalists: The Front Line in Combating Hoaxes in the Digital Era

Last Updated: 4 months ago

By: Robby Firliandoko, Amd., S.I.Kom., M.Si
Lecturer, Communication Science Study Program
Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Djuanda

The Indonesian Anti-Defamation Society (Masyarakat Antifitnah Indonesia/Mafindo) recorded 1,593 hoaxes over the past year. These have led to social unrest, division, material losses, and a decline in public trust in official information. Beyond that, hoaxes can trigger intergroup conflict, spread fear and radicalism, and damage the reputations of individuals and institutions. Hoaxes are not merely fragmented information; they can also be deliberately created to serve certain group interests. In the information society era, information—so vital—has become a double-edged sword: essential, yet potentially dangerous.

In today’s fast-paced digital era, where information spreads easily, the role of the media as an information intermediary is highly relied upon. Its principles of accuracy and balance should be able to counter the growing tide of hoaxes. The role of journalists is increasingly crucial in addressing the rampant spread of hoaxes, as journalists within society must continuously carry out clarification—clarification and more clarification.

As a communication science academic, I believe journalists have a strong role in combating hoaxes. They are on the front line in verifying information, analyzing data, and presenting accurate and balanced news to the public.

In the digital era, information can spread very quickly and widely; however, not all of it is true and accurate. Hoaxes can spread like a hidden fire, causing panic and chaos in society. Therefore, the role of journalists in verifying information and delivering accurate news is of utmost importance.

Professional journalists with integrity can help the public understand correct and accurate information and avoid the spread of hoaxes. They can also help raise public awareness about the importance of media literacy and the ability to distinguish between factual information and hoaxes.

However, journalists cannot combat hoaxes alone. The government, educational institutions, and the public must also take an active role in increasing awareness of the importance of accurate and balanced information.

On the occasion of National Press Day, I hope journalists will continue to enhance their professionalism and integrity in presenting accurate and balanced news. They are the front line in combating hoaxes and in raising public awareness of the importance of truthful and accurate information.

Happy National Press Day
February 9, 2026