April 14, 2022

How Open Source Intelligence Allows the Public to Combat Disinformation on Russia’s War Against Ukraine

Ask Students: What is misinformation? What is open source intelligence? Who are some of the people trying to challenge misinformationin this piece?

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Summary

It is often said that truth is the first casualty in any war. Propaganda, disinformation and outright lies have always been dependable tactics to win hearts and minds. But in a world more connected than ever by technology, it is more possible for anyone to root out information. It’s called open source intelligence, and as Miles O’Brien reports, some are using it to lift the fog of war in Ukraine.

Discussion Questions: Open Source Intelligence

What is misinformation? What is open source intelligence?
Who are some of the people trying to challenge misinformation who are highlighted in this piece?
When and Where does Justin Penden conduct his open source intelligence work?
How are some of those people using open source information to combat misinformation?
Why do they think using open source information is so important?

Focus Questions

What do you think are the advantages and drawbacks of having citizens trying to debunk misinformation about war online?

Media literacy: Do you know how to spot misinformation online? What tools or techniques do you use?

Understanding the War in Ukraine

Learn more about the crisis unfolding in Ukraine with resources we've gathered on this developing topic.

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Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Extra.

Technology

Social Media

Ukraine

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