부산대학교 도서관

Objectives: This study provided a basis for the public to evaluate numerous sources of COVID-19 information to mitigate the harm caused by the repeated dissemination and sharing of misinformation. Methods: Content analysis was used to examine the spread of COVID-19 rumors on the Internet. The content characteristics and expressions of 113 COVID-19 rumors collected from the 'Taiwan Fact Checking Center' website were used as samples for analysis. Results: The most common type of COVID-19 rumor was 'aggressive,' and 'a particular behavior' and 'specific type of food or appliance' were the most common objects of the rumors. The dates of occurrence were not clearly noted, but the contents of more than half of the rumors were accurately described. The main purposes were primarily 'attention/warning' and 'sharing new knowledge.' These rumors mostly originated from the Internet, and the rumors were corroborated primarily by 'photos/icons/videos' and 'experts.' Conclusions: The content analysis results of the COVID-19 rumors could enhance the public's basic awareness and ability to identify false COVID-19 rumors and to encourage social media users to be more vigilant against the spread of disinformation.