Combating Misinformation

Combating Misinformation

Misinfo Quote

Understanding and Debunking Mis- and Disinformation

Know the difference between ...

Misinformation: When one believes something is accurate, but in reality, it is not.(Your sister says that the latest local bill will raise taxes because that’s what she heard from a trusted friend.)
Disinformation: When one knows something to be untrue but shares it anyway.(Your sister lies that the latest local bill will raise taxes because she knows that’s the only way you won’t support it.)





Educate Yourself Against Disinformation



List of Fact-Checking Sites

Professor Lee Banville, Director and Professor, University of Montana Journalism, recommends these fact-checking websites, trusted for their rigorous analysis and commitment to the truth to help fight against the coming flood of election misinformation. These websites are valuable tools in the fight against misinformation and provide an extra layer of credibility and accuracy in today's information landscape.

1. Snopes - Snopes has investigated a wide range of claims, from urban legends to political statements since 1994.

2. PolitiFact - Run by the journalistic think tank Poynter Institute and focused on fact-checking political statements and claims.

3. FactCheck.org - A project of the Annenberg Public Policy Center.

4. The Washington Post Fact Checker - Uses a "Pinocchio" rating system from one to four (might encounter a paywall).

5. BBC Verify - Focuses on verifying claims related to global news, politics, and major events.

6. AFP Fact Check - Operated by Agence France-Presse (AFP), it verifies global news and misinformation often in multiple languages.

7. OpenSecrets.org - Focuses on fact-checking claims related to campaign finance, lobbying, and political influence from the nonpartisan Center for Public Integrity.

8. Lead Stories Fact Check- Uses analysis of what is trending to identify social media content gaining traction and then employs journalists to examine the claim. When using fact-checking websites, it's important to cross-reference information and consider multiple reputable sources for a comprehensive understanding of a topic.

9. Verify - Dedicated to helping the public distinguish between true and false information.