Fake vs. real health information in social media in China

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study is to examine the features of fake health information in social media in China and to develop a list of the features of fake information that can be used as a tool to help users identify fake health information in social media. The study collects 428 pieces of health information from WeChat, a dominant social media in China. Then the information is categorized into real or fake health information based on the judgment of rumor websites and health experts. Open coding is performed based on a framework that helps identify low quality information online. Chi‐square tests are adopted to identify significant features of fake information. The results indicate that gender and occupation affect users' dissemination of fake health information. Based on the analysis, the study develops a list that includes the salient features of fake health information. This list can help users to identify fake health information and improve their health literacy. In addition, it can inform health information systems to automatically filter fake information and improve health information quality online.