A lack of quotes and links and a slightly altered domain name of a well-known news outlet can raise a red flag about the story you're reading
News organisations and technology companies have started working together to develop some common best practices and tools to support journalists in verifying information from social media.
But an important part of the process is also making audiences aware of the widespread issue of fake news online and what steps they can take to identify problematic materials themselves.
In a recent episode from On The Media, WNYC's weekly podcast about the latest developments in the media industry, hosts Brooke Gladstone and Bob Garfield speak to Melissa Zimdars, assistant professor of communication and media at Merrimack College, who recently started a list of problematic news websites, about distinguishing between true and made-up news sources.
Her 11 tips include being weary of all caps paragraphs in a story, double-checking the domain, which could resemble that of an establish news source with some minor alterations and refraining from sharing the article if you have any doubts about the veracity of its contents.
Zimdars' recommendations have been compiled by WNYC into a short breaking news consumer's handbook, which you can bookmark, or print and tape next to your computer or TV.
If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).
Sign up to receive job alerts of your choice by email, or manage your subscription
Featured recruiter: click to view its vacancies
New digital journal covering inflation and rate setting seeks a talented writer with experience as a financial journalist to use data to produce specialist content
Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news, tips, jobs and more
End that deadline stress today and find help in our freelance directory
Personal trainer James Hilton has launched a podcast 'Jim's Gym - Inspiring Movement'. James, a specialist in biomechanics and injury recovery from the Cotswolds, runs Jim's Gym, a virtual online space supporting people over 55 to be more active
Our next Newsrewired conference will be in May 2025, London.
Conferences and study weeks are fantastic opportunities to get the latest updates on the industry and network with your peers
Awards are a great way to have your hard work recognised by industry experts and celebrate your teams. Here is where you can apply
If you find your social feeds a tad too heavy on men's voices, follow and connect with these fantastic women experts on indie media
How do you move print readers to digital? Are there other ways to hold on to subscribers besides a last-ditch deal?
