Torbay Libraries' exhibition explores data privacy and misinformation

An award-winning exhibition tackling online misinformation kicks off next week at libraries across Torbay and Teignbridge.

The Glass Room Misinformation Edition exhibit explores misinformation in all its forms, from deepfakes to addictive technology design.

The exhibit will remain at Paignton library from Monday, October 18 to October 29,  after which it will visit Torquay library from November 8-19 and then Newton Abbot library from November 29 to December 10.

Visitors are invited to explore the consequences of society's increasing reliance on social media and the web for the majority of information.

According to Ofcom’s annual News Consumption Report, 73 per cent of UK adults use the internet for news, and around half use social media.

The Glass Room exposes some of the risks of misinformation online and how they might be avoided.

Colin Bray, service development manager at Libraries Unlimited, said: “The Glass Room is an eye-opening exhibition that prompts us to consider our internet health, and how to protect ourselves online.

"Technology has become so deeply embedded in our lives, and this exhibition examines what impact that has on the information we see, and the implications for our privacy and data.”

He added: “It also provides actionable steps we can take to reduce misinformation and privacy risks, including a digital detox and suggested reading list to learn more.

"The more we know about these risks, the better placed we are to combat exploitation and stay safe online.”

Exhibits will be presented through a series of posters, animations, visualisations, and apps.

Visitors can learn how phones are designed to create addictive behaviours, and discover their psychometric profile using an interactive app.

Entrance is free. Visit torbaylibraries.org.uk to check library opening hours.

The exhibition will coincide with Get Online Week, which raises awareness of those at risk of being digitally excluded.

Libraries will also be running events and activities to support people with their digital skills throughout next week.