“Clickbait” are those texts whose title does not match the content of the following text. Such texts and articles aim to attract the attention of the reader or even the consumer of the content with a sensational title, promising content that does not actually exist and are created mainly out of financial interest, that is, due to increased readability and visibility on digital platforms. So, this type of text aims only to click, which can be converted into a profit for the content producer.
When titles, illustrations, or captions do not match the content, then we are dealing with examples of false connections. A typical example of this category of material are titles that serve simply to "fish" for clicks (clickbait).
Some common characteristics of clickbait items include:
Sensational headlines: Clickbait articles often use provocative or misleading headlines to grab the reader's attention. For example: "This also happens: Parks will be built at cemeteries." The title is sensational and generalizing without providing details about the event. (here)
Incomplete information: Clickbait articles may contain important information or provide only a partial story, leaving readers without complete information. For example: "Serious incident: Father kills his two sons". The title is a generalization that does not clarify the location of the event. (here) “Two women stabbed in the capital”. Sensational title, suggesting that the incident took place in the capital of Kosovo. (here)
Incorrect use of images or videos: Clickbait articles often rely heavily on visuals to grab readers' attention and keep them on the page. E.g. "Kosovo is not built by protecting personal interests, but by putting itself at the service of the state!". This title is illustrated with a photograph of Prime Minister Kurti, implying that this statement was made by him. (here)
Unclear usage in the title: Clickbait articles in the case of different statements may only use the adjective in cases of similarity of adjectives, leaving room for the other to be implied. E.g. "Kurti reacts harshly after Shala's insult in Parliament: Vulgars, not academics." The title implies that it is about Albin Kurti, and the content reveals that the MP from the Vetëvendosje Movement, Tinka Kurti, has reacted. (here)
In general, clickbait articles are designed to generate clicks and traffic to a website, often at the expense of the accuracy and quality of the information. It is important to be aware of clickbait and critically evaluate the sources and content of articles before sharing them.