How to Spot Fake News Online: A Simple Guide

The Challenge of Fake News

It's easy to find news online, but not all of it is true. Fake news can trick us and make it hard to know what's really happening. This simple guide will help you learn how to spot it.

1. Look at the Website

Think about where the news is coming from:

• Is it a website you know? Big, trusted news sites usually have a good history.
• Does the website look okay? Fake news sites might look messy or have strange web addresses.
• Check the "About Us" page. Real news sites tell you who they are. If there's no information, be careful.

2. Read More Than Just the Headline

Sometimes, headlines are meant to make you click:

• If a headline sounds crazy, it might be fake.
• Read the whole story. Don't just believe the headline.

3. Who Wrote It?

Think about the person who wrote the news:

• Is there a name? Real news usually says who wrote the article.
• Have you heard of the writer before? You can search their name online to see if they are real and trustworthy.

4. Where Did They Get Their Information?

Good news uses real sources:

• Do they link to other news or websites? You should be able to check where their information came from.
• Be careful if they only say "sources say" without naming anyone.

5. Check the Date

Sometimes, old news is shared like it's new:

• Make sure the news is recent. Old stories might not be true anymore or might be shown in a wrong way.

6. Is It a Joke?

Some websites make up funny news:

• Is the website known for making jokes or funny stories? Sometimes it's satire, not real news.

7. Use Fact-Checking Websites

There are websites that check if news is fake. If you're not sure, go to:

• Snopes
• FactCheck.org
• PolitiFact

8. Think About What You Believe

Sometimes, we want to believe things that aren't true:

• Try to be open-minded. Just because you agree with something doesn't mean it's real news.

9. Look for Other Warning Signs

Fake news might also have:

• A website that looks bad.
• Lots of spelling mistakes or bad grammar.
• Headlines that try to make you feel very strong emotions.

10. See What Other News Sites Are Saying

If a big story is real, lots of trusted news companies will be reporting it.