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See through the fake

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There are many ways to fabricate and spread false information. Even facts, when presented out of context or reported with a bias, can be used to change the public’s perception of an issue, event, or person. Images or video clips can also be used in news reporting to create a false or misleading description of reality.

Hint!
Always consider the purpose behind the information you’re getting.

Fake news sites can take on the look and feel of a real media outlet, by using almost identical banners and logos, and fabricating signatures, in order to trick readers.

Signs to look for in a fake news site

  1. Web address: Imitating well-known sites is a common way to spread fake information. Take a good look at the web address (also known as the URL) to be sure you are on the right page.
  2. Page title: The goal is to catch the reader’s interest and to get a reaction. Make it a routine to always read more than the title – the devil’s in the details.
  3. Content: Is it fact, or opinion? Always read the entire piece or page before sharing it.
  4. Author: Consider who wrote this, and why. Watch out for pages or articles that lack an author.
  5. Image: Photos can easily be manipulated. Consider if the image has a real connection to the content. If you are unsure, run a reverse image search to check if it has been used before or in a different context.
  6. Sources: Does the page make references to any sources? If so, check them.
  7. Comments section: Who is commenting? Most often they are regular people, but sometimes trolls or bots try to take over the conversation.
  8. Attention: Just because a page or an article is liked and shared a lot, does not mean that the information is true.

Glossary

  • Shill: A person who appears to act independently, but is in secret collaborating with a third party or being paid to said certain things. One example is an influencer that doesn’t disclose a partnership with a brand.
  • Sockpuppets: Fake accounts that belong to a person or an organization that are trying to avoid revealing their true identity or opinions. These false identities are often used to join groups or argue online. Two or more sock puppets may be used to pretend to portray opposing sides in a debate.
  • Potemkin village: A foreign power with immense resources can create fake companies, research institutes, and think tanks, and use them to try to lend credibility to fake information and make it appear factual.