A dramatic headline can travel faster than its evidence. These simple checks can help you slow down, trace a claim and avoid sharing something misleading.
Find the original source
Look for the full report, statement, document or video rather than relying only on a cropped screenshot. A repost may remove context or omit important qualifications.
Check the date and location
Old footage is often reshared as if it happened today. Confirm when and where the event occurred, and whether the caption matches the original context.
Compare independent reporting
Look for credible sources that are not simply repeating the same unverified post. For policy, rules or official figures, check the original institution’s publication where possible.
Separate evidence from interpretation
A real photograph may be paired with a misleading explanation. Ask what the evidence actually establishes and what the post merely asks you to assume.
Be cautious with numbers
Check the unit, time period, sample size and definition behind a statistic. A percentage without a denominator or context can create a false impression.
If you cannot verify it, pause
You do not need to share every breaking claim. Waiting for better evidence is often more responsible than amplifying a story that may harm someone.
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