The spread of false information, during the current coronavirus crisis, is a huge threat. But factors like the Covid-19 pandemic, Elections and much more have had the fact-checkers worldwide working overtime. Google says that more than 50,000 new fact checks surfaced on Google Search over the past year. But users have become smart and are actively seeking evidence to confirm or refute a piece of information they’re uncertain about.
Therefore ahead of the International Fact-Checking Day that falls on April 2. Google has shared some tips on how to spot fake news online.
Here are the few tips shared by Google to spot fake news:
1. Find out about the source:
Google notes that users can find out more about the source of an article or website by clicking on three dots on the right of an article. But this tool is available only in the US as of now.
2. Is the image authentic:
There are multiple photos that are forwarded on WhatsApp and Facebook. Users can check if an image is authentic by right-clicking on a photo and selecting Search Google for Image. Google will then check if the image has appeared online before and the context in which it appeared.
3.More than one source:
Users can check for the full coverage of a news piece if they switch to news mode or search for a topic in Google News. Users can click on full coverage to see the news outlets that have covered the news.
4. Use Google’s fact-checker:
Google users can type in a keyword and look for claims made by news publication. Users who wish to look for an elaborate fact check search for a topic in the Fact Check Explorer.
5. Is the event is taking place in the said location:
Users can confirm if an event is indeed taking place at a location by checking Google Earth or the Street View of a location on Google Maps.
International Fact-Checking Day is promoted by the International Fact-Checking Network in partnership with fact-checking organizations around the world. Fact-Checking Day is an annual celebration and rallying cry for more facts in public health, journalism, and everyday life.
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