“Fake News” is a phrase that has made the news over the last few years. Many an unsuspecting tech-user has retweeted and reposted about topics near and dear to their hearts, completely unaware that what they have shared may indeed be false.
We live in an age where information can spread around the world in mere moments. News events can be live-streamed from another continent as they are occurring. News outlets are now blogs without editors, and the news can update multiple times without anyone batting an eye. To compete with the constant flow of information, news outlets use sensationalized titles and opinionated op-eds to fuel the emotions of readers and viewers. Sensationalism is the norm, and fact-checking is difficult – as stories evoke emotion and are shared in response.
While not all news is fake, and fake news is sometimes difficult to discern, it is important to employ the basic questions of journalism before making a decision whether to share a news story or post.
Who is this about?
Is the article slandering someone famous? Is the text objective, or are they promoting gossip or trying to demonize someone?
What is going on? Are the title and words meant to stir up emotions, or is it objectively stating facts? Can you verify the facts with another source (like snopes.com), or is it too soon for the conclusions?
When did this take place? Are the associated photos and facts current? Is the news old? Often times, authors use stock photos convey an idea – those photos are not from the event itself. Sometimes people recirculate stories to stir up emotions, but the stories actually took place years before. Can you verify that this is a current event?
Where did this take place? I don’t know how many times I’ve clicked on a link, expecting to read a story from my own country, then learning it took place somewhere else. Some stories are a lot less newsworthy when you realize that they are typical of the country of their origin.
Why is this worthy of sharing? Is the article or post informational, or does it stir up emotion? Is the source reputable?
In an age of instant news, it is important to be aware that not all news is accurate or objective. Information based on opinions still needs to be verified with facts. It is up to us to take the role of “editor” and edit what we consume and share online.