Last Updated on 11th January 2022
4 min read
What is Misinformation?
Misinformation is the deliberate development of stories and events which are not factually correct to further an ideology, sow confusion or delegitimise an individual or cause. Some information may be based on something that was true but has since been exaggerated and changed so that it no longer accurately represents the truth.
Misinformation is nothing new. Newspapers have been accused of printing fake news stories since they began. But now misinformation can reach a global audience within seconds via social media platforms.
Without factually correct information guiding their decision-making processes, children and young people are likely to form incorrect opinions and views of the world around them.
What You Can Do
With an abundance of misinformation, fake news, and non-factual reporting, it can be challenging to decipher what is factual information and what is not. Below, we have developed key advice for you and the children and young people in your care.
Before sharing or believing anything online, it’s always worth following these guidelines:
- Check the publisher
How or where did the story come from? What other information have they published and what do you know about the news outlet? Check the sources
Who does the news story quote? If they mention experts or other news outlets, you can search online to see if they check out.Who shared the content?
Do you know the person? Are they qualified to give an expert opinion? Have they shared anything else trustworthy?- Research the issue using trusted sources and discuss it with someone you trust.
Read past the headline, think about what the story tells you, and pay attention to dramatic language.
Check the date
When was the article published? It might be old or reposted.Pay attention to images
They may not be recent and may have been reused (you can use reverse image search to find out).Use a fact-checker
Many websites check facts, and stories reported in the press. For example, have a look at Full Fact.
It’s important to encourage young people to discuss the news with you so that you can figure it out together. Visit our Teach Hub and Home Learning Hub for learning resources about fake news and misinformation.
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