Evils of knowledge sharing and learning: The case of agri-food misinformation in virtual communities of practices in Sri Lanka

This study investigates the spread of misinformation related to agriculture in Sri Lankan virtual communities. It discovers that false information is widespread and influenced by cultural, political, and societal factors. Members with media literacy and expertise are better equipped to identify and avoid misinformation, and reporting and blocking are recommended as primary countermeasures. To combat agri-food misinformation, the study suggests multi-stakeholder interventions and responsible reporting by media agencies and experts.