We have a problem, and that problem is fake news. It is one of the most effective tools to promote and drive propaganda to the people drumming up support, hate, and vitriol against various things and agendas.
However, the importance of the internet cannot be overemphasized as it has ingrained itself in our lives and operation. It is up to us as the users of this medium to discern and detect fake news wherever it might seem to crop up.
Here are a few tips on detecting fake news online.
- Look closely at the domain and URL
CNN.com is very different from CNNN.com or CNN.com.co. Variations of this credible website are used to deceive unwary people into believing they are on a legitimate website.
To refrain from falling into that trap, it is important to double-check the URL of the site you are visiting to ensure it is the best and it is also relevant if the visited site has its own domain to boost the belief of validity.
- Reverse Search Images
This is one of the greatest tools used in the fake news. Most sites use random pictures gotten from different contexts to push their biases and ideals.
To ensure you are not a victim of this it is necessary to reverse search any image you find online and ensure it is not sourced from an unrelated place for the mere purpose of sensationalism.
- Search for quotes
Most fake news articles online conveniently leave out quotes when putting together their piece. Quotes add credibility to the piece you send out. A lack of quotes, sources, and links in an article is a huge red flag meaning it is more opinionated and the facts in the article cannot be backed up.
In the cases of health news and articles, it is important to watch out for Professionals and Doctors and also, go the extra mile of following up on these sources to ensure information is not misconstrued.
As important as the internet is, it requires vigilance and experience to avoid propaganda and the likes. But it is still very possible to stream your favorite news Live Stream online using your device.
It might take off the stress of having to follow links and fact check or in some cases if you don’t like reading. But then again, it is important to ensure you are getting credible, fact-checked information all the time.