7,2 2,4 8,3

the article explores the phenomenon of fake news and its impact on society using the example of Russian and Chinese media. The relevance of the topic is due to the growth of disinformation in the digital age and its potential socio-political consequences. The aim of the work is to identify the specifics of the spread of fake news in Russia and China, assess their impact on public opinion and identify ways to counteract it. The methodology includes media content analysis, audience surveys, and regression analysis of information trust factors. The empirical base consisted of samples of 500 fake and 500 reliable news in each country for 2021-2023, surveys of 1,000 respondents. The results showed that fakes account for 15-20% of news content, cause an increase in opinion polarization (correlation coefficient – 0.78) and a decrease in trust in the media by 25%. Political bias increases faith in fakes by 30%. Recommendations on improving media literacy and media responsibility are outlined. The need for a balance between freedom of speech and countering disinformation is discussed.

fake news, disinformation, media action, Russia, China, content analysis, opinion polarization