Large-scale studies find humans drive most misinformation spread even without bots.
Claim:
The majority of online misinformation is spread by human users rather than automated bots.
HARDLY BS
Topic
social media platforms
10 claims checked
Social media overuse is a behavioral addiction distinct from cocaine or heroin dependence.
Claim:
Social media use is as addictive as controlled substances such as cocaine or heroin, producing comparable neurological and behavioral dependency.
MOSTLY BS
Heavy social media use is significantly associated with lower youth wellbeing.
Claim:
The 2026 World Happiness Report found no significant relationship between social media use and youth happiness.
TOTAL BS
Studies link heavy social media use with reduced attention, but causation remains unproven.
Claim:
Social media use causally shortens human attention spans.
MOSTLY BS
A major Twitter study found false news spreads faster and farther.
Claim:
False claims are more likely to go viral on social media than fact-based corrections.
SOME BS
Social media financial rumors are linked to statistically higher short-term stock volatility.
Claim:
Market-moving financial rumors spread on social media measurably increase short-term stock market volatility.
HARDLY BS
Surveys show Gen Z more often cites social media as its primary news source.
Claim:
As of March 1, 2026, members of Generation Z obtain news more frequently from social media feeds than from official news websites.
SOME BS
Heavy or problematic social media use correlates with slightly worse mental health in young adults.
Claim:
The prevalence of mental health issues among young adults in Western countries has significantly increased due to social media use.
SOME BS
Government access to TikTok user data is limited by court orders and technical controls.
Claim:
Social media platforms such as TikTok, regardless of changes in ownership, are unable to adequately protect user data from government access.
SOME BS
Engagement-maximizing features in social media can foster addiction-like use in teens.
Claim:
Social media platforms are deliberately designed to be addictive for children.
SOME BS