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Media Studies: Fact Checking and Bias: Evaluating Media Sources

Use this guide to explore the historical, cultural, psychological, and sociological impact mass media bias has on the greater public.

How to Spot Fake News - International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions

How to Spot Fake News

  • Consider the Source - Click away from the story to investigate the site, its mission and its contact info.
  • Read Beyond - Headlines can be outrageous in an effort to get clicks. What's the whole story?
  • Check the Author - Do a quick search on the author. Are they credible? Are they real?
  • Supporting Sources? - Click on those links. Determine if the info given actually supports the story. 
  • Check the Date - Reposting old news stories doesn't mean they're relevant to current events.
  • Is it a Joke? - If it is too outlandish, it might be satire. Research the site and author to be sure. 
  • Check your Biases - Consider if your own beliefs could affect your judgment. 
  • Ask the Experts - Ask a librarian or consult a fact-checking site. 

Source: https://blogs.ifla.org/lpa/files/2017/01/How-to-Spot-Fake-News.pdf

Avoid Fake News