False Information on Social Media as a Challenge for German Security Authorities and Organizations

Abstract

Security-related false information on social media increasingly poses challenges to security authorities and organizations (abbreviated in German to ‘BOS’). Based on ten expert interviews with BOS representatives in Germany, supplemented by insights from the literature, this explorative study examines German Security Authorities and Organizations’ experiences of false information and the related challenges. The study finds that many BOS representatives associate false information with criticism of their own institution (which is perceived as inaccurate). Some BOS mainly encounter rumours and speculation (misinformation) arising from uncertainty. Intentional political disinformation mainly affects BOS in large cities and at the federal level. This includes anti-police and racist disinformation and ideologically motivated falsehoods related to Covid-19. In terms of possible reactions to false information, BOS are caught between protecting the democratic public from false information and safeguarding freedom of expression as well as privacy. All BOS also encounter challenges such as a lack of problem awareness and resources, psychological stress and coordination difficulties. Addressing these issues could help BOS tackle false information.