What are the risks of weak media literacy?

Weak media literacy can lead to the spread of misinformation and disinformation, as individuals may struggle to critically evaluate sources or discern credible information from falsehoods. This can result in poor decision-making, increased polarization, and a lack of informed civic engagement. Additionally, vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, may be disproportionately affected, making them targets for manipulation and exploitation. Ultimately, without strong media literacy, society risks undermining democratic processes and the overall quality of public discourse.