Their days often began at the crack of dawn.
They would set up stalls at churches, temples, and parks, targeting seniors who are more susceptible to misinformation. To grab attention, they offered free bars of soap, symbolizing the cleansing of misinformation.
Engaging with people, they inquired about their media consumption habits and the impact of fake news. Through conversations and educational sessions, they taught individuals how to discern truth from falsehood in a society saturated with information.
After nearly six years, Fake News Cleaner, with just one official employee and a team of volunteers, has conducted over 500 events, reaching out to various demographics across Taiwan.
The organization addresses the pervasive issue of disinformation in Taiwan, affecting all aspects of life and causing personal rifts, especially among the elderly population.
Through offline engagements, Fake News Cleaner aims to bridge the technological gap for those most impacted by misinformation, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and media literacy.
The group’s efforts have led to significant awareness and outreach, catering to diverse communities and educating them on navigating the complexities of digital information.
By utilizing a non-political stance and steering clear of government funding, Fake News Cleaner focuses on empowering individuals with the tools to discern reliable information from deceptive content.
The group’s ultimate goal is to encourage people to question what they consume, fostering a culture of critical thinking and responsible media consumption.