ABSTRACT
Introduction: The traditional media are responsible for providing accurate information in the years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Aim(s): We aimed to evaluate the media's role in disseminating information before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Greece. Material(s) and Method(s): An online survey was conducted via a cloud-based short questionnaire on Google Forms, disseminated via institutional social accounts on the social networking platform. Result(s): 722 responses were deemed suitable for inclusion in the study after rigorous screening. The mean age of the participants was 38.4 +/- 12.4 years. 85.9% of them were highly educated. 45.8% of the population reported that during the pandemic, information was not accurately presented by the traditional media, with a validity rate of 60% and a confidence rate of 24.9%. However, the desire for accurate information increased by 40%. 60% of the responders believed that the internet could essentially replace traditional media. The newspaper remained the most credible media, followed by television and radio. Moreover, radio doubled its support during the pandemic and scored first in the quality index, followed by newspapers and television. The responders looked for meaningful, valid, systematic, and objective information without terror, risk-taking, guided journalism. Conclusion(s): The Internet seemed to be the most significant media information source during the pandemic. The role of social media was crucial in shaping attitudes and choices. This study highlights the priority of traditional media to overcome issues of information quality, credibility, and authenticity.