NEW: New evidence local Facebook/other social media groups fuelling misinformation - filling void left by retreating local media.
Misinformation 3x more in areas with little/no recognised local journalism.
Misinfo peaks at local elections. MPs concerned
www.theguardian.com/media/2026/j...
Investigation reveals more than 4.4 million people live in ‘news deserts’ that lack dedicated local reporting
The @SMFthinktank research found 2/5 local Facebook groups & more than 4/5 X searches featured at least one piece of misinfo in their most recent 1,000 posts.
These groups are run by admins with no training, some support particular parties.
MPs say they have a real impact.