The internet can be a minefield of disinformation, misinformation and hoaxes. We always need to be aware that, along with tons of useful information, there is also a lot of information out there that sets out to mislead us and plenty that is just plain sloppy.
At this time of home-learning and heightened anxiety about Covid-19 we need to be especially vigilant about disinformation, misinformation and hoaxes.
Don't let anyone fool you!
Remember these simple tips when you are online:
The story:
What/why are they telling you this? Is it an advert, is it a joke, are they trying to get you to agree with them? Does this story set out to play on your emotions?
Stop and take a breath ....
Look to see if you can find the same story elsewhere.
Full Fact is a very reliable fact checking website.
You might want to apply your own PEED skills:
What's their point, where's the evidence, can other websites explain further and develop this story?
Who?:
Is it someone's opinion or fact? Quality information will more than likely link to the author's details.
If there is no author, and even if there is an author, dig deeper. Who wrote this, what are their qualifications, are they someone who's opinions are worth your valuable time?
The website:
Are there spelling or grammar errors. What's the URL?
Check the address at the top. Be aware that clever hoaxers can make a website look genuine.
Examine that logo and URL ending carefully!
The most trusted URLs end:
.gov.uk - the UK government
.org - an organisation which does not make a profit
.ac.uk - UK university
.sch - a school
Be a bit more careful
.org Charity or non-profit making organisation
.co - UK company
.com - Company (any country)
.ltd - Private limited company
.plc - Public limited company
.edu US college or university
Be very careful
~ Tilde – used for a personal web page
The date:
Check the date. Is this up to date or just an old story being recycled?Again look for the story elsewhere.
Source BBC Bitesize
Why not test you skills with this BBC quiz?
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