A Guide to Fake News 1 of 3
What is Fake News ?
Fake news can be defined as news stories that are false. The story itself is fabricated, with
noverifiablefacts,sourcesorquotes.
What are the consequences of Fake News ?
Information shapes our world view and we make important decisions based on information. We
form an idea about people or a situation by obtaining information. So if the information we see is
invented,false,exaggeratedordistorted,wewon’tmakegooddecisions.
A Guide to Fake News 2 of 3
“Fake news” is not simply false news stories. Some stories contain an element of truth but lack any
contextualizing details. They may not include any verifiable facts or sources. Some stories may include basic
verifiable facts, but are written using language that is deliberately inflammatory, leaves out pertinent details or
[Link]"Fakenews“as:
Misinformation
Misinformation is false or inaccurate information that is mistakenly or inadvertently created or
spread;theintentisnottodeceive.
Disinformation
Disinformation is false information that is deliberately created and spread in order to influence public
opinionorobscurethetruth.
A Guide to Fake News 3 of 3
How can you identify trustworthy news sources ?
Obtain your information from reputable broadcasters or newspapers where information is
verified by journalists before being published. Avoid getting your news from social media or
unverifiedwebsitesasthesearegenerallyuploadedbyindividuals. Beonthelookout!
How you can help
Before you post or share anything on social media, check whether the news source is true. Fake
news spreads so rapidly and that is mainly due topeople not checking whether the news they are
postingorsharingisinfacttrue.
So do your bit. Check before you share !
