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Evaluating Information

Infographic: How to Spot Fake News

How to Spot Fake News

  • Consider the source - Click away from the story to investigate the site, its mission, and its contact info.
  • Read beyond - Headlines can be outrageous in an effort to get clicks. What's the whole story?
  • Check the author - Do a quick search on the author. Are they credible? Are they real?
  • Supporting sources? - Click on those links. Determine if the info given actually supports the story. 
  • Check the date - Reposting old news stories doesn't mean they're relevant to current events.
  • Is it a joke? - If it is too outlandish, it might be satire. Research the site and author to be sure. 
  • Check your biases - Consider if your own beliefs could affect your judgment. 
  • Ask the experts - Ask a librarian or consult a fact-checking site. 

 

Credit: International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions with thanks to www.FactCheck.org