Influencers and content creators play a critical role in today’s information environment as opinion makers and trusted voices. As a result, influencers and their online communities have become targets for malign actors seeking to undermine confidence in US democracy, particularly around the upcoming elections. 

But influencers also have a unique role in shaping the information space for good. Understanding this, ASD in collaboration with Cyber Collective developed tips to help influencers protect themselves and their audiences from accidentally spreading false information about the elections. 

  1. Stop and verify before you share. Information overload and highly emotional content make it more important than ever to share content mindfully. Take a moment to pause before sharing to confirm other reputable sources are saying the same and gut check any emotional response. If you can’t verify, don’t post! 
  2. Cite your sources. When you share information about elections and other hot-topic issues with your online community, make sure you clearly cite your sources of information. Not only does this help make you more credible, but it gives your audience the opportunity to dive into the topic for themselves. 
  3. Align paid opportunities with your values. Sponsorships are one of the best parts of being an influencer, but some organizations may be looking to pay you to share information on topics that are political, highly emotional, or on subjects you are unfamiliar with. Make sure you understand the full requirements of brand deals you take on to ensure it aligns with your personal and ethical values.
  4. Be transparent. Make sure you disclose whether your content is AI-generated by using platform labels and communicating it to your audience. AI-tools can significantly boost the quality of your content. But it is important that you don’t use AI in a way that could deceive people. Your audience values your authenticity. 
  5. Look to election officials. When it comes to election info, cite official sources. False information surges during election cycles; this year the election process itself is in the crosshairs. Use your position for good and encourage your followers to make a plan to vote. Look to the Secretary of State’s website and/or local election officials’ social media accounts to get correct information and share with your audiences.

Please click here for the PDF resource.

 

This resource is a product of an influencer event ASD and Cyber Collective co-hosted in Philadelphia in early October that brought together local content creators, election officials—including Philadelphia City Commissioner Seth Bluestein and former Pennsylvania Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar—and ASD experts to discuss information threats and the 2024 US presidential election.

The views expressed in GMF publications and commentary are the views of the author alone.