As Azamat Seitov notes, the phenomenon of rumors in Uzbekistan today is taking on new forms under the influence of the digital environment and requires not only sociological understanding, but also a systematic approach to neutralizing it. He analyses how social networks are becoming not just platforms for communication, but also accelerators for the spread of so-called viral rumors — misinformation that can undermine public trust, provoke panic or radicalization. The author emphasizes that rumors today operate in conditions of information noise and high user engagement, where emotions prevail over facts.
Seitov bases his conclusions on a number of Western sociological theories, including the approaches of Shibutani, Sansstein and other researchers who interpret rumors as a form of ‘improvised news’ arising in conditions of a lack of reliable information. He emphasizes that rumors most often spread in conditions of uncertainty and social anxiety — and it is at such moments that they are most dangerous. Particular attention is paid to how rumors can be exploited by extremist structures, which makes the problem particularly relevant in the context of information security.
The author gives examples of so-called viral rumors in Uzbekistan, including those related to vaccination, power cuts, and banking failures, to show how quickly and uncontrollably mass opinion can form without verified sources. He emphasizes that the digital transformation of communication requires a new media environment, where media literacy plays an increasingly important role as a tool for countering disinformation. In this context, Seitov proposes strengthening educational and institutional measures, including digital hygiene and algorithmic control over the spread of false messages.
At the end of the article, Seitov emphasizes the need to develop a national strategy for society’s resilience to disinformation. In his opinion, only through the joint efforts of the state, society and the information sector can an environment be created that is resistant to rumors and panic. It is important not only to combat the consequences, but also to create an educated and critically thinking information society in advance, in which lies will have less chance of taking root.
* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.
