Check if a claim online is true

False claims spread fast because they are surprising or emotional. A few quick checks help.

Five quick checks

1. Who is behind it? Look for an author and an organization you can recognize.
2. When was it published? Old stories are often shared as if they are new.
3. Is anyone else reporting it? Search for the claim on trusted news and fact-checking sites.
4. Can you find the original source? Follow links to the study, document or video.
5. How does it make you feel? A message designed to make you angry or afraid deserves extra care.

For images and videos

Use a reverse image search to find where a picture first appeared. Images can be real but used in the wrong context.

Before you share

Read beyond the headline. If you are not sure, wait. Not sharing is always an option.