Role of Media, Social Networks & Disinformation

What should you study in Role of Media, Social Networks & Disinformation?

• Social media & disinformation — deepfakes, fake news (WhatsApp)
• Encryption debate — backdoor access vs privacy (IT Act Section 69)
• Dark web — illegal markets, arms, drugs; law enforcement challenges
• Money laundering — PMLA; ED enforcement; FATF compliance

How often is Role of Media, Social Networks & Disinformation asked in UPSC Mains?

Asked in 4 of 10 years, including 2 of the last 5. Highlighted years below are the ones it appeared in.

1. 2016: not asked
2. 2017: not asked
3. 2018: asked
4. 2019: not asked
5. 2020: asked
6. 2021: not asked
7. 2022: asked
8. 2023: not asked
9. 2024: asked
10. 2025: not asked

About the Mains GS Paper III paper

GS Paper III is a 250-mark descriptive Mains paper covering technology, economic development, biodiversity, environment, security and disaster management. See all 50 Mains GS Paper III topics.

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