As social media has developed over the past decade, the way we consume news and information has changed as well. With over 80% of Americans getting their news from major social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook, the risk of interacting with false and misleading information increases. However, polarization within the United States has fueled a divide among individuals, further provoking the issue of what is considered false and misleading information on social media platforms. By looking at major platforms and specific occurrences of divide and controversy, this thesis will analyze how social media has fueled a disinformation crisis that threatens the safety and security of the country. As some events have led to forms of violence, the issue of disinformation becomes a Homeland Security concern. This thesis does not aim to solve or offer suggestions, but rather identify how disinformation has become an issue that is important to the Homeland Security community.
