Part 9/11:
The Broader Implications: A Digital Democracy Under Threat
The Malaysia and Philippines cases exemplify a global trend where social media platforms—once heralded for democratizing information—are also exploited to undermine democracy, manipulate elections, and silence critics. Governments and malicious actors leverage automation, fake identities, and targeted disinformation campaigns to tilt political landscapes, often with little oversight or accountability.
Key Challenges:
Detection Difficulties: Sophisticated fake accounts can mimic human behavior, making it hard for social media platforms to identify and remove malicious content.
Organized Campaigns: Coordinated efforts, often with political or financial backing, amplify false narratives and harassment.