**2. Methodology**

This chapter has been prepared based on a search of professional literature, scientific studies and research focused on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine on the use of social media and the spread of fake news. The author has processed extensive research and analysis of current studies and offers an overview of the latest knowledge about the opportunities and risks associated with the use of social media, as well as the results of his own scientific and research activities, focused on the use of media, the spread of fake news and their impact on recipients. In addition, it brings together important information from national surveys on media **behavior** and the spread of fake news, as well as framework documents of the European Union and institutions dedicated to the fight against disinformation.
