In an era where everyone posts everything and anything on social media, it is hard to figure out what is true. I’m not going to tell you that it’s bad to use social media as your news outlet. However, I will say that it can be bad if used wrongly. I will share with you some tips and tricks to be conscious of what’s going on around you while enjoying the platform you are on.
In today's fast-paced digital world, social media is a primary source of news for many teens. While it’s convenient to scroll through your feed and stay updated, it’s crucial to be news savvy to distinguish between real news and misinformation. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the news landscape on social media like a pro.
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Check the Source
Not all news sources are created equal. Or have accurate news sources. Reputable news platforms have a history of fact-checking and accountability, before sharing or believing a story.
Always check who published it and where that person got it from. Well-known news outlets like BBC, The New York Times, and Reuters are usually the most reliable. Beware of websites that mimic or try to duplicate these legitimate sources. They might have odd URLs. Don’t click on unknown links and don’t share these links until you know for sure. Be extremely cautious with sources.
Look for Verification
A single post or tweet doesn’t confirm the truth of a story. It doesn't make the story true. Check the internet and see if reputable news sources are reporting the same news story.
If a story is true or important, it will most likely be covered by several well-known media outlets. It won't just be one tweet or post by a few popular influencers. If this source is as important as these people make it out to be, then it will be covered by more people. That’s a fact.
Be Aware of Clickbait
Headlines that seem too outrageous or sensational. They may seem too good to be true. These headlines are mostly designed to attract clicks.
Hence, the name. Rather than spread the truth. Try to read beyond the headline to understand the full story. Clickbait tends to misrepresent the actual content to generate traffic. This tends to make and generate fake content that is too good to be true. A stretched true.
The best clickbait content is part of the truth. Not the whole thing. Just bits and pieces with lots of fabrication.
Sometimes we can easily fall victim to this threat. Look for headlines that have to much “sparkle.” The “sparkle” is something that isn’t real. Essentially, it is too good to be true.
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Check the Date
Sometimes old news can resurface and appear as a current event. Make sure that you always check the publication date to make sure that the information is relevant and timely. If a publication is too outdated, then sharing it can spread unnecessary panic or misinformation.
You could easily be looking at a source, from 20-30 years ago. You can see how that could be an issue. Imagine if you unknowingly found an old article, that the country had to quarantine because of COVID-19.
You would probably freak out and think the virus came back stronger than ever. This happens, and it causes a lot of havoc on people's lives. Be sure to check the dates on any article you are using for research or just to share with others.
Understand Bias
All news sources have some level of bias. When we write we tend to know what side we are on. You need to learn how to recognize the difference between proper and professional news reporting and opinion pieces.
You need to identify the source so that you can help you assess the information presented. You need to ensure that the content is real and true.
Verify with Fact-Checking Websites
Websites like Snopes, FactCheck.org, and PolitiFact specialize in verifying and identifying the accuracy of news stories. When you are in doubt, consult these sources to see if a story has been fabricated or confirmed.
Watch Out for Deepfakes and Edited Images
With the scary advancements in technology, it has become easier than ever for ordinary people to create fake videos and images. I think that you should always be skeptical of the media. All forms of media, especially ones that seem too perfect or outrageous. Look for signs of editing and consider the source of the media.
Be Mindful of Your Emotions
News is designed to provoke strong emotions from each of its viewers. Whether that is anger, joy, or fear. All of these emotions can cloud your judgment.
Always be objective, take a step back, and evaluate the information. Emotional reactions can make it easier to fall for fake news.
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Don’t Spread Unverified Information
Before you hit the share button; always make sure that the information you’re going to share is accurate. If you were to spread false information, whether you know it or not, can have serious consequences. Additionally, they contribute to the problem of misinformation.
When you are in doubt about a post, ask around. Ask your family and ask the source. Ask the person who posted the tweet or post.
Chances are, they will know where they got their source from. If they don't know, don’t share the tweet or post. You don’t want to get in trouble for spreading misinformation. That post might scare someone into hiding or not using a certain item. Re-sharing content that is iffy, can and will have consequences.
Educate Yourself Continually
Stay informed about how misinformation spreads and how to identify it. Many organizations offer resources and courses on media literacy. There are books out there, and classes. The more you know, the better you’ll be able to navigate the news.
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Remember
Being news savvy on social media is so essential! You need to stay informed and make responsible decisions based on what you hear. When you follow these tips, you can and will become a person who is aware of news and knows how to identify fake news.
Remember, you have to think critically with an added dose of skepticism. These are your best tools to fight the plague of misinformation. Stay smart, stay informed, and stay news savvy!
