HOW TO SPOT

MISINFORMATION ONLINE

S I F T

STOP- If something you read or see, triggers a strong emotion for you, surprise, anger, or sadness, pause. Some posts aim to elicit strong emotional reaction to override your critical thinking

INVESTIGATE THE SOURCE- Unfamiliar with the publication or source. Quick search engine scan can help uncover reputation. Can’t find anything at all about them? Red flag.

FIND BETTER COVERAGE- In addition to source, check claim being made. Are other news outlets reporting it, compare them. If something important, multiple outlets will pick it up.

TRACE CLAIMS, QUOTES, AND MEDIA- Some misinformation takes the truth out of context. Click on source links, to see articles, or paste quote or sound bite, in search engine to look for fuller quote or video-may show missing context.

Source: Consumer Reports

November 2020