THE INFLUENCE OF THE SPREAD OF HOAXES ON SOCIAL MEDIA ON NATIONAL UNITY

Abstract

The development of social media has give convenience in distribution information to society. However, the convenience This was also followed by an increase in distribution hoaxes that can cause various impact negative, including division social and disruption unity nation. Research This aim For analyze influence distribution hoaxes on social media to unity nation among​ students of Medan State University. Research use method qualitative with approach descriptive. Subject study consists of on active students of Medan State University using social media. Data collection techniques are carried out through observation, interviews, and documentation. Research results show that hoaxes circulating on social media can influence method view student to issue social, political, and cultural. In addition, the spread of hoax potential cause conflict, strengthening stereotypes, as well as reduce mutual feelings believe between individuals and group society. Although Thus, students who have level good digital literacy tend more capable sorting information and not easy affected by the news fake. Therefore that, the increase digital literacy is one of the effort important in guard unity nation in the digital era