Italy survey: 48% of citizens hit by fake news, AI seen as journalism risk

Ipsos Doxa presented its research "Le Pratiche di Fruizione del Pubblico, Rischi e Opportunità nel Panorama Informativo Italiano" at the 47th Premio Ischia journalism award. The June 2026 survey sampled 1,500 Italians aged 16‑65. Nearly half (49%) consider staying informed "very important" (93% when including those who deem it "fairly important"). However, 51% say it is difficult to access quality information today. The study found that 48% of respondents have been victims of fake news at least once, and one‑third fear that artificial intelligence could be used to create false or manipulated news without readers noticing.

Media consumption is shifting: television news remains the top source (36%), followed by news websites/apps (33%). AI chatbots are emerging as a third option (23%), with higher usage among under‑35s (29%). The research also highlighted gaps in coverage on topics such as environment, climate change, innovation, technology, AI, lifestyle, health and mental health.