
Research Article
The Dilemma of Fake News Criminalization on Social Media
@INPROCEEDINGS{10.1007/978-3-030-77417-2_14, author={Marcio Ponciano da Silva and Angel Freddy Godoy Viera}, title={The Dilemma of Fake News Criminalization on Social Media}, proceedings={Data and Information in Online Environments. Second EAI International Conference, DIONE 2021, Virtual Event, March 10--12, 2021, Proceedings}, proceedings_a={DIONE}, year={2021}, month={6}, keywords={Fake news Police investigation Criminalization}, doi={10.1007/978-3-030-77417-2_14} }
- Marcio Ponciano da Silva
Angel Freddy Godoy Viera
Year: 2021
The Dilemma of Fake News Criminalization on Social Media
DIONE
Springer
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77417-2_14
Abstract
The present research analyzes the dilemma faced in Brazil about the criminalization of fake news disseminated mainly on social networks. The growth of social networks use around the world promotes more skillful ways of communicating and spreading true or false information in the information society. The objective of this study is to examine the trend of fake news spreading, coined by fake news, and the reaction of Brazil seeking to stop this dissemination through a criminalization process, as a way to confront this phenomenon. This study investigates effects of fake news around the world including Brazil, seeking to examine social changes and the role of Brazilian government in confronting this phenomenon. In Brazil, this battle starts even before a criminal process, as it begins in the criminal investigation carried out by the Brazilian police. However, it is through criminal proceedings that Brazil solves conflicts that arise from criminal conduct defined by law. The dilemma is that no Brazilian law considers fake news crime. In addition, the relationship between the information society and the spread of fake news on social networks is addressed in the research, bringing a reflection about freedom of speech and maintaining the individual responsibility of each individual. Aspects about the challenges of police investigation concerning fake news effects were addressed taking into consideration the issue of related crimes commited on social networks, such as copyright infringement and defamation, benefiting from the reach of information on digital communication networks.