10/22/2024
PSA:
Here are some steps you can take to identify misinformation so you don’t accidentally share it.
1. Slow down
Make sure you read the entire message or watch the whole video. Consider why you immediately want to hit that share button, and see if you still feel the same way after you have taken a brief break from your phone or computer.
2. Look at the language
If a post contains attention-grabbing or inflammatory language like ALL CAPS, excessive exclamation points or crude name-calling, experts say it can be designed to grab your attention and cloud your judgment.
3. Ask questions
Does the post contain a really simple explanation for a huge problem? Does the answer seem almost too easy? If so, dig a little deeper and examine your own biases. Does the post play into what you already believe? Be aware of what political predispositions or beliefs you hold, and consider how that may be influencing your response.
4. Examine your emotions
Posts that elicit fear, anger and other strong emotions are rewarded by the algorithms that drive Facebook and other social networks. Consider why the post is eliciting an intense reaction and weigh whether the creator of the post or video is attempting to manipulate your feelings. If you’re getting an intense emotional response, it might be time to pause before sharing.
5. Find the source
Think about the people posting content, and check to see whether their jobs or other posts suggest that they might have a bias on this topic. Check their academic and professional history to weigh whether they have special expertise in the subject.
Do some research off the social media site. Trace the original source of the information to confirm its accuracy. Search for the original studies or documents referenced in the post.
6. Inspect the visuals
The easiest way to spot manipulated imagery is to zoom in and look for irregularities like extra fingers, distorted geometry or a generally airbrushed look that’s just too good to be true. Consider reverse image searching and seeking confirmation from media researchers or verifiable news outlets that may be covering the topic.
If you’re looking at a chart or map, take extra care to make sure that the design is clear and not distorted. One of the most common ways that misinformers distort charts is by using inconsistent measurements, so double check those horizontal and vertical axes.
