According to the 2025 Ethics Index, published by the Governance institute of Australia, there has been a dramatic decline in the public’s confidence in social media. One out of four Australians rate social media platforms as “very unethical”.
This is in line with other Australian reports about attitudes to social media. Digital News Report, 2025 for example, also identified widespread concerns about misinformation in social media news.
This distrust is not limited to Australia. This sentiment is widespread. Based on a global survey of over 30,000 people in 28 countries, the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer reports a decrease in trust for social media companies.
Where does all this negativity originate? Podcasts are a good way to consume information online. Podcasts have become a huge success in Australia and across the globe. They are also viewed as more positive than social media.
We’ll examine what the data says about social media and podcasts. And we’ll see what it tells us and what it doesn’t about accountability across digital platforms.
What is the source of this mistrust?
Research has shown that social media can be a powerful tool for connecting people, fostering creativity, and promoting civic engagement.
On certain social media platforms false and sensational information can spread more quickly than the truth. This type of information can fuel negativity, and political polarisation.
has linked heavy social media usage to mental health issues. It is difficult to determine the causes, but reports indicate that social media use can lead to depression, anxiety, and psychological distress. This is especially true for adolescents and young adults.
In 2021 Frances Haugen , a former Facebook Product Manager, made thousands of internal documents public that revealed Instagram’s negative impact on teens’ mental health. The revelations have sparked global scrutiny and a debate on social media accountability.
Haugen, a whistleblower who has been contacted by social media companies to report potential harms on their platforms, says that they are aware but do not always take action.
Read More: Facebook Data reveal the devastating harms in real life caused by misinformation
Podcasts are much more popular than they used to be
Podcasts have a different reputation than social media. Australians not only view them much more positively but podcasts consumption has increased significantly over the years.
Over half of Australians aged over ten listen to audio or video podcasts at least once a month. It is not surprising that political leaders featured on podcasts during the Australian election.
Why are podcasts popular and so trusted? This may be explained by a number of features.
The consumption is more deliberate. Listeners select specific episodes and shows instead of scrolling endlessly through feeds. Podcasts are usually longer and nuanced than the short snippets provided by social media algorithms.
Research suggests that podcasts can foster intimacy and authenticity. Listeners form “relationships’ with hosts, and they view them as authentic, credible and trustworthy.
This trust can also be misplaced. In a Brookings Institution study analysing over 36,000 episodes of political podcasts, nearly 70% contained at the very least an unverified or false statement. A study also found that political podcasts frequently use toxic and hostile language.
It is clear that while podcasts are often perceived to be more “ethical”, they do not necessarily offer a safer or more trusted space.
Rethinking Trust in a Complex Media Environment
It’s obvious that we should not blindly dismiss or trust any online platform. This includes social media or podcasts. We need to be critical of all information.
All of us need better tools to navigate the complex media landscape. Digital literacy must extend beyond social media in order to help people evaluate any type of information, whether it is a TikTok video or a podcast.
It is important to read more about critical thinking. How can I improve?
Social media platforms must behave ethically if they want to regain the public’s trust. The platforms should be open about their advertising, sponsorship and moderation policies and make it clear how they recommend content.
This expectation should apply to digital media such as podcasts, streaming and other digital services, which are all susceptible to being misused by those who wish to harm or mislead others.
Governments can strengthen accountability through fair supervision, but they will only be effective if paired with platforms that act responsibly.
In a report released earlier this year by the Australian government, it was argued that social media platforms owe a “duty” to their users. For example, they should limit harmful content.
For a healthier information environment, you need sceptical, but engaged, citizens, higher ethical standards across all platforms, and accountability systems that reward transparency and reliability.
It’s simple: you can’t rely on trust alone to determine whether or not the information is accurate, especially in a world where anyone is allowed to say whatever they want. Keep that in mind.
Jason Weismueller has not disclosed any relevant affiliations other than their academic appointment. He does not work, consult, or own shares in any company or organization that would benefit from the article.
