Everyone – online platforms, news organizations, individuals and civil society – has an important part to play in keeping hoaxes and false news from spreading by making sure that something is reliable before we share it. This tip sheet focuses on what individuals can do to recognize false content online.
So when should you double-check before sharing something you find online? You don’t have to try to debunk everything that comes to you, but you should ask yourself these questions before you share, tag, retweet or forward:
Could someone base an important decision (about their health, their career, travel, etc.) on this?
Is it about a hot or controversial issue?
Does this seem “too good to be true”? Is it something that you hope is real or would really like to believe?
If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes”, then double-check the story to see if it is true!
Here’s an update to the classic “5 Ws” to help you.