What you need to know about fake news
Fake news relies on believers to repost, retweet, and forward false information - think before you share.
Fake news relies on believers to repost, retweet, and forward false information - think before you share.
Fake news can cause shock and embarrassment, and influence behaviour. It’s important to know how to spot fake news and how to avoid being misled into believing fake news. Sasfin is Beyond a Bank, so we strive to provide proactive information to assist our clients in navigating today’s digital world.
Fake news can cause upset or shock to readers or viewers so the news spreads quickly.
Fake news is often deliberately created out of malice or to support an ideological or political agenda. When shared fake news can lead to embarrassment or ridicule.
Fake news is designed to manipulate people’s opinions, views and decisions, persuading people to believe something that simply isn’t true.
Here’s what to look out for to spot fake news:
Consider the source
Fake news stories are often too ridiculous to believe. Make sure that the website that published the story is a credible source and does not have an odd domain name.
Verify the images and facts
Authentic news is usually supported by official data or surveys and previous, similar instances of the occurrence being reported. Fake news isn’t and often includes manipulated photos.
Check the date and funding
Make sure that the data is current and it is not an old story merely reworked. Also, check to see if the article is funded and if so by whom. This is a quick way to detect if it’s propaganda.
Be cautious of comments
Even if the article, video or post is valid, be careful of comments posted in response. Often links or comments are auto-generated by bots or by people paid to release false information.
Make a difference
Fake news relies on believers to repost, retweet, and forward false information. If you’re uncertain as to the authenticity of an article, think before you share. And if you suspect the news is fake, report it. Google and many social media platforms have feedback message systems or ‘Report Post’ buttons. Always question the motivation behind a story and question whether it makes you form a specific opinion or influences your actions.
