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Fullerton College Library

Information Literacy and "Fake News"

Fake news is a hot topic and a big problem! What can you do to help stop spreading false information? Find out how to evaluate news and news sources.

COVID-19 Misinformation De-Bunking

There are a lot of rumors and misinformation being passed along on the Internet. 

The News Literacy Project recommends the following:

  • Recognize the effects of your information decisions.

Just as your decisions and actions can inadvertently spread the virus itself, your conduct online can influence others and have consequences in the real world.

  • Take 20 seconds to practice good information hygiene.

Like the time recommended for effective hand-washing, 20 seconds is all that is needed to eliminate a significant chunk of the misinformation we encounter: Scan comments for fact checks, do a quick search for the specific assertion, look for reliable sources and don’t spread any unsourced claims.

  • Filter your information sources.

The World Health Organization cited the “over-abundance of information” as a cause of the current “infodemic.” While a diverse and varied information diet is generally important, so is the ability to focus your attention on credible sources.

  • Learn to spot misinformation patterns.

Rumors about this virus often cite second- and thirdhand connections to anonymous people in positions of authority, such as health or government officials. Don’t be fooled by “copy-and-paste” hearsay.

  • Help sanitize social media feeds.

Flag misinformation when you see it on social media. Failing to do so leaves behind an infected post that will influence those who see it after you.

From News Literacy Project's The Sift

Here are some links to help you find some reliable information and de-bunk other sources.

COVID-19 Info Sources