The Roles of Source Citations in Identifying Misinformation and Disinformation: Moderating Effects of Digital Literacy and Information Types

This study investigates whether source citations enhance detection of false information and whether their effects depend on digital literacy and information processing style. In an experimental survey of 1,013 South Koreans, citations show no overall effect. However, they significantly improve detection of disinformation—but not misinformation—among individuals with higher digital literacy. Intuitive processing lowers detection ability, and citations do not counteract this tendency. The findings challenge assumptions that transparency universally improves evaluation, showing that citation effectiveness depends on user capabilities and the type of falsehood, and highlighting the need to strengthen digital literacy alongside transparency initiatives.