Abstract:

The rapid expansion of digital media ecosystems and algorithm-driven information environments has intensified the spread of misinformation, making fake news a critical challenge in contemporary societies. Generation Z, as digital natives, represents a highly connected yet paradoxical audience whose media consumption patterns and attitudes toward fake news require deeper investigation.This study addresses the gap between Generation Z’s perceived digital competence and their actual ability to critically evaluate information. Prior research indicates that although young people are highly exposed to digital content and frequently consume news via smartphones and social media, they often rely on platforms they simultaneously distrust . Moreover, despite widespread awareness of fake news, Generation Z tends to overestimate its ability to identify misinformation and does not consistently engage in fact-checking practices . Empirical evidence also shows that social media dominates their information consumption, with a majority encountering fake news regularly .The aim of this study is to examine Generation Z’s attitudes toward fake news by analyzing the interplay between media consumption habits, trust in information sources, and media literacy competencies. The research adopts a quantitative approach using a structured questionnaire to assess exposure to misinformation, perceived ability to detect fake news, verification behaviors, and trust in digital platforms. The survey sample - 201 of Generation Z representatives aged 18-29 years from Lithuania. The collected data analyzed using descriptive statistical methods and the analysis of relationships and differences. Descriptive analysis applied to identify the main response patterns and summarize the overall tendencies of the sample, while the analysis of relationships and differences is used to examine associations between variables and compare respondent groups.

The findings are expected to reveal a paradoxical tendency: while Generation Z demonstrates high awareness of misinformation and expresses skepticism toward information sources, this does not translate into consistent critical evaluation or responsible information behavior. Algorithm-driven content consumption and “snack culture” further reinforce superficial engagement with information, increasing vulnerability to misinformation.The study contributes to the literature by highlighting the discrepancy between perceived and actual media literacy and by emphasizing the role of algorithmic environments in shaping information behavior. The results provide practical implications for higher education and policy, suggesting the need to move beyond basic fact-checking skills toward critical media literacy that includes understanding platform mechanisms, algorithms, and the socio-technical context of information production.

Keywords:

Generation Z, fake news, media literacy, misinformation, digital media consumption, algorithms, snack culture, information behavior.