Maryam Bourchad defines the issue by focusing on its calculated nature, explaining that fake news is not just an error but a deliberate act of manipulation designed for maximum impact. "Fake news is the deliberate spread of misinformation, often in the form of sensational headlines and stories designed to grab attention and go viral. It often mimics the style of legitimate news sources to mislead readers. The motives behind creating and sharing fake news can be varied, ranging from financial gain through advertising revenue to the deliberate manipulation of public opinion for political or social purposes."

Maryam Bourchad on the Nature of Deception

Youssef breaks down the different ways fake news can manifest and highlights its power to shape the beliefs and actions of its audience . "Fake news can take many forms, from fabricated stories and exaggerated claims to destored facts and misleadi ng headlines. The purpose of fake news is to influence people's opinions, beliefs and behavior."

Youssef on the Forms and Influence of Falsehoods

SARA el Kalame points to the broader, corrosive effects of misinformation, arguing that its imp actgoes far beyond individual confusion to weaken the very foundations of society. "it negatively impacts Trust in media and official institutions, leading to The erosion of social fabric and increased divisions Within society, it can also result in individuals making misguided decisions, particularly in areas like health, politics, and economics."

SARA el Kalame on the Erosion of Societal Trust

Bouaoud Mohamed emphasizes the tangible harm caused by fake news while also pointing toward the individual's power to combat its spread. "It's important to be careful because fake news can affect public opinion, create panic and even influence political decisions. However, we can fight fake news by thinking critically, verifying information from trusted sources, and reporting false content when we see it. Being informed and responsible online is the key to protect ourselves and others from the harmful effects of fake news."

Bouaoud Mohamed on the Real-World Consequences and Our Role

Focusing on the personal impact, Maryam Pâttar discusses the mental health consequences of a polluted information environment and provides a clear, actionable strategy for self-defense. "Fake news can negatively impact our mental health, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, and distrust. It can also damage our relationships with others and lead to social isolation... To protect ourselves from fake news, we should check the source of information: Who created the content? Is it a reputable source? And use fact - Checking websites such as Snopes and Politifact and don't share unverified informa- tion if we are not sure of somethings is true."

Maryam Pâttar on the Personal Toll and a Path to Verification

Kaoutar Ziyal offers a straightforward and powerful piece of advice, concluding that the most fundamental solution lies in being mindful and selective about our information sources. "So you should be careful what you read and share. Get the news from trusted websites and from the main sources, and don't believe everything you see on the Internet. And do your own research, and you should not share the fake news so that it does not spread in society."

Kaoutar Ziyal on the Power of Careful Consumption