Fake news spreads faster and more easily today through the internet, social media and instant messaging. , which can harm the public health and add to social disorder and division.
Some fake news also contains a mixture of correct information, which makes it difficult to spot what is true and accurate. . They might not have read the full story before sharing or just glanced over it. Before you decide to share, make sure to read stories properly and follow some checks to determine the accuracy.
If the story appears to claim a much higher level of certainty in its advice and arguments than other stories, this is questionable.. So, it is only natural to more readily accept information that provides comfort or easy solutions – unfortunately, often in a false way.
, it is worth double-checking. Fake news will try to grab your attention by being more exaggerated than real stories. Anything written entirely in capital letters or containing a lot of exclamation marks should raise your suspicions.
The best sources for authentic information are your government websites. However, even government messaging can get things wrong. . For instance, The Conversation is a more trusted source because all content is written by academics who are experts in their fields. Websites such as APFactCheck and Full Fact highlight common fake news stories. A search engine can be used to look up the title of the article to see if it has been identified as fake news by the mainstream media.
A. If a story is more surprising
B. People will be seeking certainty in a time of high uncertainty
C. Fake news may also be shared by trusted friends and family
D. If a message presses you to share
E. But they are more trustworthy than unchecked sources on social media
F. These messages may contain useless, incorrect information and advice
G. Think twice about the messages and help guide your family and friends
