Life Kit Fake News Can Be Deadly. Here's How To Spot It.
Apr 20, 2020
Caitlin Dickerson, an immigration reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the world of misinformation, particularly during health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses the chaos caused by fake cures and unscientific claims, highlighting the urgent need for critical thinking. Dickerson emphasizes the importance of verifying sources and maintaining a skeptical mindset when consuming news. With tools like the Informable app, she provides practical strategies to navigate the flood of misleading content, especially on social media.
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Twin Falls Misinformation
- In Twin Falls, Idaho, a false story about refugees committing a crime spread online.
- This led to threats against city officials, highlighting misinformation's real-world impact.
Healthy Skepticism
- Approach news with skepticism, not as a judgment of the reporter or outlet.
- View this as a smart way to consume news and encourage others to do the same.
Source Transparency
- Look for reporters who show their work by explaining how they know information.
- Understanding a source's connection to the story builds trust and credibility.