Experience of Countering Fake News on Chinese Social Platforms: Communication Features of Weibo and WeChat

The article examines the features of fake news dissemination on Chinese social platforms Weibo and WeChat. The scientific problem is to identify the differences in the mechanisms of viral and hidden spread of disinformation, and the goal of the study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the applied disinformation mechanisms and evaluate preventive measures to combat fakes. The object of the study was 2,000 public posts with examples of fake news from Weibo and WeChat. The methods of qualitative content analysis and comparative analysis were applied: systematic observation of the methods of fake news dissemination, analysis of the structure of social ties ("weak" and "strong" connections) of target audiences and user behavior research. It has been proven that Weibo, as an open network with "weak connections", ensures lightning-fast viral dissemination of fakes through mass reposts and hashtags. At the same time, WeChat spreads disinformation through "strong" trust connections within closed groups and personal chats, making news more hidden and difficult to verify. The tools used by media platforms to combat fakes include public refutation accounts, algorithmic regulation, the introduction of AI and blockchain, which have varying degrees of effectiveness depending on the type of network. The interpretation of the results highlights the need for interdisciplinary cooperation and the expansion of global comparative research. Increasing society's resilience to fakes requires comprehensive strategies for managing the information environment, developing digital humanities, increasing the transparency of moderation algorithms, and creating international mechanisms for promptly refuting disinformation.