In an age where almost all information, news, and content are available with just a few clicks on a smart device’s screen, distinguishing true, verified, credible information from fake news, misleading, and manipulative content becomes challenging. Additionally, the uncontrolled and excessive sharing of various content without prior verification poses a significant problem, complicating individuals’ analysis and decision-making processes, while also diminishing trust in media content. Due to the vast amount of information and content that leads to overcrowding and congestion in the media and public space, as well as the rise of fake news, misinformation, manipulative, and misleading content, the ability to think critically, evaluate content, and possess media and digital literacy skills becomes crucial. Verifying the sources of information and content is extremely important not only as a means and tool for identifying misinformation and combating fake news but also as a foundation for developing and maintaining an informed society.
Fake news and misinformation aim to deceive individuals, and the further development of digital technology, encompassing new social networks and applications, has facilitated their spread.
In the sea of misinformation, manipulation, and fake news, navigating becomes difficult. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly study and analyze content before sharing it. It is necessary to check and determine whether the source is credible and whether it provides reliable and accurate information. Credible sources verify facts before publishing them, are unbiased, and adhere to ethical standards of the profession. Furthermore, in case of errors, they promptly correct them. Another characteristic of credible media is the use of relevant sources, such as experts, official documentation, relevant studies, and reports/research, which are also verified. Moreover, relevant sources align the title of the text with the content, avoiding sensationalist headlines and clickbait. Information published by credible sources always includes a prominent impressum, a clearly marked publication date, as well as the names of the authors and all participants or sources of information. Characteristics of credible sources also include impartial and objective analysis of the chosen topic, unless it is an author’s commentary or column.
Verifying information and sources is extremely important because it enables a functional and democratic society, prevents the spread of misinformation, false, and misleading content, and thereby reduces the possibility of moral panic and conflict. Furthermore, access to accurate, verified, and unequivocal information and content facilitates the decision-making process for individuals.
Test your knowledge about the credibility of sources and media:
The aim of the quiz is to help users of the platform learn more about verifying information and sources.
This quiz has been designed as part of the project “Enhancing the Culture of Fact-Checking,” which is being carried out by HUOJ in collaboration with media professionals from Lider Media and the Faculty of Economics at the University of Zagreb, with financial support from the European Union – NextGenerationEU.
