The war in Gaza underscores new-age issues faced by journalists and consumers alike

The source and type of content being shared online on the Gaza war is a cause of concern for viewers, including journalists. Unique to this war is despite the usual restrictions imposed on journalists in war zones, the ubiquitous use of cell phones with internet access by users on both sides of the conflict has resulted in the existence of very disturbing images and videos of the war online. Also, unlike in previous eras, viewers are no longer interested in the aftermath of the war to share in the experience of capturing the actual footage is in vogue. 

Similarly, journalists, like consumers, must now decipher what is real from what is not when viewing content online. For the journalist however this means added skill requirements. Hacked images and videos include the passing off of old content for new, the use of video game content as accurate, and the use of deepfakes and misinformation. New-age companies have also sprung up to meet the demand. Companies like Storyful, a social news and strategic intelligence agency, offer journalists verified content developed through mapping software, flight tracking, security cameras, and news agency videos to combat the scourge.

Why does it matter?

The extent to which harmful and misleading content on the war in Gaza is being featured not only points to the need for new investigative skills when viewing content online but it opens up the debate on the role other actors like internet service providers play in content moderation, and the need for mental health safeguards for journalists and viewers alike.