In the information battles of the 2020s, truth is often the first casualty. "Media Literacy as Defense" explores how citizens can protect themselves from manipulated narratives, doctored visuals, and algorithm-driven propaganda. This book provides a historical and contemporary lens on how misinformation evolves—from war-time disinformation campaigns to viral fake news and AI-generated content. It invites readers to question the sources, recognize emotional triggers, and understand how digital ecosystems amplify certain voices while silencing others. Rather than offering cynicism, it cultivates awareness—showing that literacy is not just about reading facts, but about perceiving intent. Drawing from history, psychology, and media theory, this work equips readers to see through the noise and reclaim agency in a world overwhelmed by influence.