Meta ends fact-checking: Tips to avoid falling for fake news
PTC Web Desk: The growing issue of disinformation and fake news has become a significant challenge for the online media industry, especially on social media platforms. In an attempt to curb this, social media sites initially employed tools like community notes and contextual warnings to help users avoid false information. However, Meta (the parent company of Facebook, Threads, and Instagram) has recently announced a shift in strategy, discontinuing its fact-checking programme in the US and replacing it with a crowdsourced model. This change will mean users will no longer see warnings on posts flagged by other users, as Meta emphasises the importance of "free expression."
As we move toward a new era where fact-checking takes a backseat, it's crucial to stay vigilant. Here's a guide on how to verify news and avoid falling for fake information:
Think logically: Before believing everything shared online, carefully assess your emotional reaction. If a post triggers strong feelings like anger or fear, it's a red flag. Always verify before trusting such information.
Don’t trust social media blindly: Social media platforms often amplify fake news, as they lack the stringent controls of traditional media. Popularity, such as high numbers of 'likes' and 'shares', doesn't guarantee truth. Investigate and cross-check the information independently, and examine the account’s history to see if it regularly shares sensational content.
Avoid relying on AI bots: Platforms like Meta often use AI bots for fact-checking, but these may not always provide reliable results. If you use Google search to verify information, scroll past the AI-generated overview and focus on information from trusted sources like reputable news outlets.
Look for the original source: Always try to trace the original source of information. Platforms like Google News or Apple News, which aggregate information from credible news sources, are more reliable for finding factual content.
Use fact-checking websites: Fact-checking platforms like FactCheck.org and PolitiFact evaluate online information for its accuracy. Trusted legacy media outlets like Reuters also provide helpful fact-checking services to ensure information is correct.
Steer clear of algorithmic feeds: Avoid relying on algorithm-driven suggestions for news. Instead, curate your own list of trusted accounts or sources, but still use caution before accepting anything as truth.
Use reverse image search: Often, fake news stories rely on altered or misleading images. Without social media warnings, reverse image search tools such as Google Images can help verify the authenticity of an image and provide context.
By following these steps, users can better navigate the ever-evolving landscape of online information and protect themselves from falling victim to fake news.
- With inputs from agencies
