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Spot fake news and disinformation
The internet is great because we can find out information on practically any subject, drawing on the sum of human knowledge. However, we also have to be aware that sometimes the information we see online isn't always accurate, genuine or true.
There are lots of reasons that people spread untrue information online. It might be for political or financial gain, or to attract more attention and engagement from internet users. Regardless of why people do it, it's important for all of us to have the tools we need to identify and challenge it.
Although some online services are working to tackle disinformation, it is also up to users to think carefully about what they see, hear and read online. We've pulled together some useful information and resources to hopefully make this easier!
These are 'information' links, to help you think about what you're seeing online and whether you find it trustworthy.
These are links to tools or interactive resources that can help you learn the key giveaways of untrustworthy info.
Check the reliability of a source
If you use Google Chrome as your browser, you can add this Chrome extension to help identify if a website is recognised as a good source for news or a bad one. Suitable for people who use Google Chrome.
by Know News
Google Fact Checker
If you've recognised that a story or post you've seen online might not be true, you can use Google Fact Checker to see if it's been debunked. You can use a keyword or search by image. This resource is suitable for anyone using the internet.
by Google
How can I recognise fake news?
What are the key indicators that a story or piece of information might be false? Use this guide from GCF Global to arm you. This guide is suitable for all internet users.
by GCF Global
Identify misleading images
Sometimes people use images to try and tell a story that isn't true. You can use tools like TinEye to see the origins of a picture online and make your own judgement. This tool is suitable for anyone using the internet.
by TinEye
Know when to fact check
Knowing when to fact check is an important skill, and often the tell-tale signs can be overly persuasive language.
by GCF Global
Report false content online
Seeing things that aren't true is unfortunately common online - but you can help to tackle misinformation by reporting bad or misleading content. The World Health Organisation has a good guide for major platforms. This resource is suitable for everyone using the internet.
by World Health Organisation (WHO)
Think critically online
How can you recognise the difference between fact and opinion online? What is a reliable source? Use this overview from Internet Matters to help guide you. This resource is aimed at young people, but is suitable for everyone.
by Internet Matters
What are the consequences of sharing fake news?
Sharing fake news online has real life consequences. The UK Government's SHARE Checklist outlines some. This resource is suitable for all internet users.
by UK Government
What is misinformation and why do people spread it?
Misinformation is something that everyone online needs to be aware of. This outline from Internet Matters gives a great summary. This guide is aimed at children and young people.
by Internet Matters
When the internet is not reflective of reality
Understand how fake news is spread and how to identify it with this interactive online game. This activity is aimed at young people, but is suitable for anyone.
by Get Bad News