Fake News and Misinformation

Ask yourself 4 critical questions to SPOT - and stop - fake news online.

1. Is this a credible Source?
   • Check the source of the article - and be skeptical.
2. Is the Perspective biased?
   • Think critically and look for varying viewpoints on an issue.
3. Are Other sources reporting the same story?
   • Be your own fact-checker and verify the validity of the story.
4. Is the story Timely?
   • Check the date the story was published.

Types of fake news (junk news, pseudo-news, alternative facts, disinformation, or hoax news):

1. Distorted headlines and decontextualized or dubious information is used to create outrage.
2. Click-bait headlines
3. Ads disguised as stories. (Some will have "Ad" or "Sponsored" written in small type near the article link or image.)

What is not fake news?

• Satire/comedy sites
• True stories you don't agree with.

Limiting the prevalence and impact of misinformation will help all of us make more informed decisions about our health and the health of our loved ones and communities.