Introduction
Not sure if a headline is fake news or not? Here are three tips to check whether a story is fact or fiction.
Fake news is flooding our social media – but you can spot it if you know what to look for.
1) Check the Source
Before you take any story at face value, check where it’s coming from. Is it a reputable outlet with a history of accurate reporting? Or is it a site you’ve never heard of that’s pushing sensational stories?
2) Cross-Reference Information
Don’t rely on a single source. Check the facts it presents against multiple other sources, especially those that have a different viewpoint. If a claim is true, multiple sources should verify it.
3) Look for Emotional Manipulation
Fake news and propaganda often use emotionally charged language to sway opinions.
- If an article is using fear-mongering, sweeping generalizations, or irrelevant personal attacks instead of reasoned arguments – be skeptical.
- If the article is trying to make you angry, afraid, or smug – be skeptical.
Activating your emotions doesn’t prove a piece of news is fake, but it is a sign to take an extra-careful look.
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