Media Capture in the Digital Era: A New Conceptual Framework

This study addresses the evolving concept of media capture, focusing on emerging forms such as policy, platform, and cognitive capture. Traditional definitions often overlook these forms, indicating the need for a new conceptual framework that includes both governmental and non-governmental actors. The study highlights the urgency of redefining media capture in light of technological advancements and the increasing digital integration of developing nations, which are likely to amplify the frequency and variety of media capture in the digital age. To overcome current limitations, the study introduces a new framework for defining and observing media capture, based on a taxonomy from existing literature. This model identifies a perpetrator, target, information distributors, and media outlets, and accommodates a variety of mechanisms underpinning media capture. The proposed model not only facilitates empirical research but also aids in developing strategies to detect, measure, and mitigate media capture. As the media landscape continues to evolve, bridging the gap between theoretical and empirical research on media capture is essential. The framework presented in this study will enable the systematic, real-world application of media capture detection methods, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding and approach to this complex issue.