The Problem of Defining "Fake News"

B a c k g r o u n d . Fake news poses a threat to society. In recent years, its distribution has been rapidly increasing and sometimes prevails over real news. This article analyzes the results of modern research on the definition of fake news, on the basis of which identification criteria were identified. M e t h o d s . Logical methods related to the analysis of the structure of concepts, their definitions and divisions were used. A comparative method for comparing definitions. R e s u l t s . The first definitions of fake news were based on understanding them as a means of humor, in particular satire. Starting from 2015, there were changes in the use of the concept, which is associated with the socio-political events of that period. The types of fake news began to include manifestations in the form of advertising, parodies, hoaxes, and propaganda. More modern developments tend to interpret fake news as a means of disinformation, propaganda for the purpose of obtaining profit. The reason for changing the definition of fake news was their different application. C o n c l u s i o n s . The article proposes a generalization that the common definitions of fake news are based on key features, according to which the means of identifying fake news are developed. The key features include correspondence to reality, the author's intention, and the benefit from distribution. Each of the listed features has shortcomings. Expanding the theoretical framework for interpreting fake news will contribute to the search for new means for their identification.