An Analysis of User Trust Toward Social Media as an Information Source

Abstract

This study examines user trust toward social media as an information source, with a focus on the Federal College of Education (FCE), Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria. Social media platforms have become primary tools for accessing news, updates, and crisis information. However, trust in these platforms varies significantly based on factors such as source credibility, content consistency, and user experience. A quantitative survey method was adopted, and data were collected through an online questionnaire administered to 547 students and staff members of FCE Yola. The results revealed that although social media is frequently used for information seeking—especially during crises—users are divided in their trust. About one-third of respondents mostly trust information on social media, another third remain neutral, while the rest mostly distrust it. Key factors that increased trust included content from official accounts, fact-checking features, and alignment with other sources. Conversely, trust was undermined by the presence of misinformation, biased content, conflicting reports, and clickbait headlines. The study found that a significant number of users have shared false information unknowingly, and only a few always verify content before acting on it. The findings emphasize the need for improved media literacy and greater responsibility from platform providers in managing information credibility. The study contributes to understanding how users interact with digital content and highlights strategies for fostering a more trustworthy information environment.