❓02. Problems

While news and media offer many benefits, the current information delivery ecosystem faces a number of serious issues.

1. Misinformation and fake news

In the digital environment, information spreads very quickly. Various online platforms such as social media, blogs, and news websites allow information to be disseminated in real-time, but this creates an environment where misinformation and fake news can spread rapidly. This information often includes sensationalized headlines and content, designed to entice users to click through and elicit an emotional response. The spread of misinformation and fake news has significantly eroded trust in media sources. Users find it difficult to determine what information is credible, which makes it harder for them to ensure that information is reliable. The result is a vicious cycle of diminished public trust and poor quality information.

2. Content Ownership and Monetization

In the digital media environment, content ownership and rights are complex. Content creators seek to protect the copyright of their works and control their use through digital rights management. However, in the digital environment, content can be easily copied and distributed, making rights management and protection difficult. Many content creators find it difficult to receive fair compensation on digital platforms. There are a variety of revenue models, including advertisement revenue, subscription fees, and sponsorships, but these are often not fairly distributed to creators. Advertisement revenue, in particular, can be negotiated between platforms and advertisers, leaving creators with a relatively small share.

3. Data Privacy and Security

Digital media collects and analyzes users' data to provide personalized content and advertising, which raises serious concerns about privacy and security. Various data, including user behavior, browsing history, and location information, may be collected and used without the user's consent or provided to third parties. There is also the possibility that personal information may be leaked or misused during the data collection process. If an individual's sensitive information is leaked due to a cyberattack, hacking, or database breach, it can lead to invasion of privacy and financial damage. These issues create anxiety among users and reduce their trust in the digital environment.

4. Content Authenticity

Digital content can be easily altered or manipulated. The source of information available online is often unclear or unreliable, making it difficult to verify the authenticity of content. In particular, manipulation of images or videos poses a risk of spreading untrue information. Digital content can be easily modified or altered, and such altered information can appear to be the original, misleading users. This not only undermines the credibility of news and media, but can also have the side effect of misinformation influencing public opinion.

These issues can undermine the credibility and effectiveness of digital media environments and are important challenges that need to be addressed to improve media quality and protect users. Technical and institutional efforts and user education are needed to address these issues.