Ask yourself:
- Who created or shared this?
- Why would they post it?
- Does it seem designed to trigger strong emotions (anger, outrage, pride)?
Emotional manipulation is one of the biggest red flags for misinformation or coordinated disinformation.
2. Check the Source
- Verify the publisher: Look at the website domain and its “About” page. Legitimate outlets usually list editorial staff, contact information, and a mission statement.
- Cross-check elsewhere: If the story is true, other reputable sources (like AP, Reuters, BBC, or local verified outlets) should also report it.
- Watch for imposters: Fake sites often mimic real ones (e.g., “abcnews.com.co” instead of “abcnews.go.com”).
3. Inspect Images and Videos
- Visuals are often the most convincing — and the most easily faked.
- Reverse image search (via Google Images or TinEye) to see where the image first appeared.
- Video verification: Use tools like InVID or Amnesty YouTube DataViewer to check when a video was uploaded and if it’s been reused from another event.
- Look for AI-generated artifacts: Pay attention to warped text, inconsistent lighting, mismatched reflections, or unnatural facial features.
4. Check Dates and Context
Sometimes real images or stories are shared out of context — for example, an old photo presented as breaking news.
Look for:
- Dates on the article or post.
- Event details that can be checked (location, weather, people involved).
Time-sensitive language like “breaking,” “just happened,” or “urgent” — which might signal manipulation.
5. Consult Fact-Checking Organizations
Independent fact-checkers exist specifically to verify claims:
- Snopes
- PolitiFact
- Reuters Fact Check
- AP Fact Check
- AFP Fact Check
They often debunk viral misinformation within hours or days of it spreading.
6. Use Digital Verification Tools
Some free, reliable ones:
- Google Fact Check Explorer – searches across known fact-checks.
- Botometer – analyzes if a Twitter/X account might be automated.
- Whois Lookup – finds who registered a website and when.
- NewsGuard – browser extension rating website credibility.
7. Reflect Before You Share
Even if something feels true, pause before reposting. Ask:
- “Would I believe this if it didn’t confirm what I already think?”
- That moment of reflection can stop misinformation from spreading further.
Sometimes real images or stories are shared out of context — for example, an old photo presented as breaking news.
Look for:
- Dates on the article or post.
- Event details that can be checked (location, weather, people involved).
Time-sensitive language like “breaking,” “just happened,” or “urgent” — which might signal manipulation.
5. Consult Fact-Checking Organizations
Independent fact-checkers exist specifically to verify claims:
- Snopes
- PolitiFact
- Reuters Fact Check
- AP Fact Check
- AFP Fact Check
They often debunk viral misinformation within hours or days of it spreading.
6. Use Digital Verification Tools
Some free, reliable ones:
- Google Fact Check Explorer – searches across known fact-checks.
- Botometer – analyzes if a Twitter/X account might be automated.
- Whois Lookup – finds who registered a website and when.
- NewsGuard – browser extension rating website credibility.
7. Reflect Before You Share
Even if something feels true, pause before reposting. Ask:
- “Would I believe this if it didn’t confirm what I already think?”
- That moment of reflection can stop misinformation from spreading further.
