Here’s a never-have-I-ever challenge: drink if you have never propagated some juicy news that possibly got your social media buzzing… that turned out to be fake news.
I’m guessing that the majority of readers might be feeling a little thirsty.
Sadly, most of us have done it, hopefully with little fallout due to the news being relatively inconsequential or the spread being fairly small. The reason is simple and obvious: we don’t verify news, either because it comes from someone we trust (and they wouldn’t propagate fake news, right?) or because it comes from a seemingly reputable news source.
With newsfeeds overflowing, headlines teasing and algorithms whispering sweet nothings in our ears, detecting fake news isn't a passive hobby, it's an essential skill. Here’s why, beyond the obvious:
It shapes your reality…and those around you. Every piece of information you consume shapes your opinions, choices, and even actions. Fake news, disguised as truth, can manipulate you into supporting harmful causes, distrusting reliable sources, and forming & propagating prejudiced views.
It fuels the fire of division. The main incentive of news is to engage readers or viewers. Outrage is the most intense form of engagement. Therefore, the simplest way to increase engagement is to spark outrage by provoking your readers: get them fighting online with a provocative piece that amplifies societal tensions. Remember that online fight you got sucked into? Was it worth it?
It puts you at risk. From basic data harvesting (“fill out this questionnaire to discover how you could do X”) to financial scams to phishing attempts, fake news can be a dangerous attention grabber.
So, as usual, here are 3 media nutrition tips to avoid fake news idiocy.
Question everything: Headlines are the simplest clickbait, often proclaiming outrageous points that are not fully reflective of the actual article. So, don't just read the headline. Check the source, research the author, and cross check with other, reputable news outlets. Use a simple journalistic principle: sensational claims require extraordinary evidence.
Use fact-checking websites: Snopes, PolitiFact, FactCheck.org and AllSides.com are a click away. Make a habit of using them.
Apply lateral thinking: Every publication has an angle to get your attention. If you don’t see it, don’t trust it. Be skeptical of emotionally charged content, headlines that don’t match stories, and exaggerated claims, particularly opinion presented as fact.
Your critical thinking ability isn't just about protecting yourself, it's about protecting our collective reality. You hold the power to decide what you believe. Don't be a victim of fake news. Be a vigilant defender of truth.