Don't let today's fake news become tomorrow's reality.
Fake news and propaganda influence what people believe. Governments and other powerful actors deliberately spread misleading stories to shape public opinion, undermine trust and turn people against each other. Who is behind this? How does it work? And how do you know what to believe?
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Fake news is more than a made-up story
We use the term fake news because it is widely understood. The broader term for deliberately spreading false or misleading information to influence people is disinformation. Disinformation is used to shape public opinion, sow doubt and undermine trust in independent media. It is not limited to completely fabricated stories. Distorted facts, manipulated images and baseless accusations also play a role. Social media helps these stories spread quickly. Sometimes, traditional media also pick them up and spread them further.
When journalists become targets
Journalists who scrutinise those in power and investigate wrongdoing are increasingly targeted themselves. They are accused of bias, portrayed as unreliable or deliberately linked to terrorism.
Our investigation into online smear campaigns against Palestinian journalists shows how these campaigns are organised and how accusations are further amplified through traditional media. We will publish this investigation next week.
How to spot fake news
We encounter information every day through social media, news websites and other channels. But how do you know whether a story is accurate? And who is behind it? Ask yourself a few questions before you believe or share information:
- Who created this message?
- Where does the information come from?
- Has the information been independently verified?
- Who benefits from you believing this?
- What information is missing?
Read our practical guide with eight questions to help you assess news about conflicts critically.
Support independent journalism. The answer to fake news.
Journalists investigate facts, verify information and hold those in power to account. Their work gives people access to information they need to form their own opinions. Free Press Unlimited supports journalists and independent media worldwide. We help ensure reliable information remains available, even when those in power try to suppress it.
