Based partly on recommendations from the European Parliament, here are some ways you can protect yourself against fake or misleading information.
1) Stay vigilant. Investigate beyond headlines and watch out for sensationalist titles.
2) Pay close attention to language. Is the language biased? Does it provoke an emotional reaction? Is the reporting evidence-based?
3) Verify the source, including its mission and potential funding streams.
4) Fact-check and cross-check both written information and images and videos. You can use the Panitza Library resources to help you do this. Through our subscriptions, we have access to dozens of reputable news sources online and you can avoid paywalls, while still using your own device. Contact the library if you need help with this.
5) Think critically before reacting or sharing information. Ask yourself the 5 Ws (who, what, where, when, and why) about the content, who produced it and for what purpose before engaging more.
For more information, visit the European Parliament article on this topic: Disinformation: 10 Steps to Protect Yourself and Others or check out their short video below.
You may also contact Panitza Library to set up an individual tutorial on media literacy.
