The rapid advancement of information technology has ushered in a digital revolution, transforming how we interact and exchange information globally. The internet’s proliferation has undeniably simplified numerous aspects of modern life. However, this convenience is accompanied by emerging threats, most notably the spread of misinformation and disinformation. Often, individuals are exposed to hoax news, leading to skewed perceptions and misunderstandings due to inaccurate information.
According to analysts at BSSN (Badan Siber dan Sandi Negara – Indonesia’s National Cyber and Crypto Agency), Indonesia boasts a substantial internet user base, with 75.3 million individuals actively online. Furthermore, a striking 98 percent of these users access the internet via mobile phones. This significant digital presence underscores Indonesia’s potential to evolve into a modern, digitally literate society.
In response to the challenges of online misinformation, CyberHub Fest 2021 hosted a webinar themed “The Role of Technology in Countering Disinformation.” This event aimed to educate the public on responsible internet usage and strategies to mitigate the impact of disinformation.
One prominent organization actively combating disinformation within Indonesian society is MAFINDO (Masyarakat Anti Fitnah Indonesia – Indonesian Anti-Defamation Society). MAFINDO plays a crucial role in establishing anti-hoax databases, collaborating with entities like Google to counter cyber threats.
Harry Sufehmi, the founder of MAFINDO, highlighted that the core of their accumulated hoax data is centralized on a website named Yudistira (http://Yudistira.turnbackhoax.id). MAFINDO’s various anti-hoax technologies are integrated into Yudistira, which currently houses over 6,000 reports related to hoax news.
“MAFINDO has also developed a smartphone application called Hoax Buster Tools, available on both Android and iOS platforms,” Harry explained during the CyberHub Fest 2021 webinar on Friday, January 22nd. “The public can utilize this application to verify the authenticity of information, including images and content. Additionally, educational games are incorporated to educate the public about the dangers of hoax information.”
Alt text: Smartphone showcasing the Hoax Buster Tools application, designed for users to verify information and combat fake news.
Furthermore, MAFINDO is developing Bharata, a sophisticated tool designed for monitoring and detecting hoaxes across the internet and social media platforms. Complementing Bharata is the Hoax Crisis Center, a rapid response team established to address critical situations. This team has effectively managed disinformation during crises such as the May riots, elections, and regional and presidential elections.
Alt text: Laptop displaying the Yudistira website, MAFINDO’s online database for cataloging and analyzing hoax reports.
In conclusion, MAFINDO’s initiatives, particularly the Hoax Buster Tools application and the Yudistira database, represent significant strides in empowering individuals to identify and combat online misinformation. By leveraging technology and fostering digital literacy, organizations like MAFINDO are crucial in building a more informed and resilient online community.
