Nine ways to ensure you are not sharing fake news
Here is how you can verify if the news you have received is legit or fake!
The internet has made it easy for many people to spread news as fast as possible.
Sadly, this has also allowed others to spread fake news.
Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, there has been lots of misinformation spread in the form of videos, voice notes, and texts.
The South African government has warned its citizens against spreading fake news, and announced that anyone who creates or spreads fake news is liable for prosecution.
Fake news is spread to create fear and cause panic. Sharing it can result in people making misinformed decisions that can be harmful to their lives.
READ: Don't panic! Message saying teacher jabs ending tomorrow 'fake news'
Let's look at how to verify news before sharing it.
- Verify the source. If it is a voice note, check if the person speaking reveals their identity and their occupation, or what authority they have to share the news etc.
- Can you verify the credentials of the person speaking independently? Important and serious information will be shared by credible people.
- Check if the media has been shared previously or been edited. Search on the internet for the keywords in the video, text or audio to see if this is not old news being circulated.
- Is mainstream media covering it? Breaking news will be covered by mainstream media!
- Check with an expert. If it health information, rather check reputable health websites.
- Check on Google for the terms in the video/voice note or text. You might find complaints about the news being fake.
- To verify if a photo is legit and has not been edited, go to TinEye to check.
- Use Berify to check if videos are legit.
- Use ICANN to check if a website is registered and reliable.
READ: Are you able to spot fake news? Well, then this game is for you!
Image courtesy of iStock/ @B4LLS