Media organisations have been advised to avoid chasing social media trends without proper verification, amid growing concerns over misinformation and the rapid spread of unverified content online.

Officials emphasised that news outlets must prioritise accuracy, editorial judgment and fact-checking instead of reacting to viral posts or trending topics on digital platforms. The advisory highlighted that social media trends can often be driven by incomplete information, coordinated campaigns or misleading narratives.

Media experts noted that the increasing influence of digital platforms has created pressure on newsrooms to respond quickly to online conversations. However, they warned that relying solely on social media signals could undermine the credibility of professional journalism.

The guidance urges journalists and editors to verify information through reliable sources and maintain established editorial standards before publishing reports, especially during sensitive or fast-moving developments.

© Images used for illustrative purposes only. Copyrights belong to their respective owners.