How To Spot Fake News

Consider the source

Click away from the story to investigate the site, its mission and its contact information.

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 information given actually supports the story.

Check the date

Re-posting 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 the author to be sure.

Check your biases

Consider if your own beliefs could affect your judgement.

Ask the experts

Ask a librarian or consult a fact-checking website.

Watch this video to see a real example of fake news and the harm it can do.

DON’T GET TAKEN FOR A FOOL – CHECK IT OUT!