The Portuguese Safer Internet Centre, CIS, has launched a Portuguese adaptation of the virtual game "Fake it to make it" to combat disinformation among young people. This innovative initiative underlines the importance of media literacy in a time increasingly characterised by the rapid spread of fake news.

The game is a simulation with significant social impact in which players are immersed in the mechanisms of creating and spreading fake news. By taking on the role of a disseminator of disinformation, participants gain a unique insight into how fake news is created, spread and emotionally manipulated to influence audiences. This immersive approach encourages critical thinking and equips players with the tools to recognise and refute misleading information on the internet.

“By taking on the role of a person who benefits from the spread of fake news, players learn how disinformation is created, spread and emotionally influenced.”

“By taking on the role of a person who benefits from the spread of fake news, players learn how disinformation is created, spread and emotionally influenced,” explains CIS, emphasising that this hands-on experience "stimulates critical thinking and reflection about the information they encounter online” and empowers young people to become more sceptical consumers of digital content.

The game had its official launch at the “Are you on? Meeting of youth and associative leaders”, a flagship event hosted by the Regional youth directorate of the Azores from 21 to 24 November on the island of Terceira. The meeting, which focussed on media literacy, provided a platform for young participants to explore critical topics such as the impact of social media, the challenges of disinformation and strategies to promote more conscious and critical consumption of information.

Eládio João Medeiros Braga, Regional youth director for the Azores, emphasised the overarching mission of the initiative: “The motto ‘I’m in! – Inform yourself, discuss and decide’ summarises the three fundamental pillars that promote responsible, aware and participatory youth as actors in the consolidation of democracy through digital and media education: Information, critical thinking and action.”

In the session "What concerns do young people have about the media?", the Portuguese Safer Internet Centre discussed with the young participants the skills and tools needed to navigate the digital environment safely and critically. The session looked at strategies to combat fake news, promote a culture of critical questioning and encourage informed decision-making in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

The "Fake it to make it" game is an example of a forward-thinking approach to tackling one of the most pressing challenges of our time: the spread of disinformation. By empowering young people with practical tools and critical perspectives, this initiative is paving the way for a generation better equipped to uphold the principles of truth and democracy in the digital age.

The game is available here.

Find more information about the work of the Portuguese Safer Internet Centre, including its awareness raising, helpline, hotline, and youth participation services, or find similar information for other Safer Internet Centres throughout Europe.