Digital Literacy and Immigration Misinformation on X: Youth Engagement Analysis

Abstract

Social media platforms increasingly influence public understanding of immigration-related issues while also enabling the rapid spread of misinformation. X (formerly Twitter) has emerged as a major platform where misleading immigration-related content circulates widely. This study examines the nature of immigration-related misinformation on X and explores the role of digital literacy in shaping youth engagement with such content. A mixed-method approach was adopted, combining content analysis of immigration-related posts shared on X over a two-month period with a survey of young social media users. The content analysis identified dominant themes, narratives, and framing patterns associated with misinformation, while the survey assessed digital literacy skills and engagement behaviour. The findings indicate that immigration-related misinformation is often emotionally framed and gains higher visibility through user interactions such as likes, reposts, and comments. The study highlights the importance of strengthening digital literacy to help youth critically evaluate misleading information and engage more responsibly with immigration-related news on social media.