Guides: Evaluate your sources: Accuracy

Types of false information

The following definitions have been taken from Macquarie Dictionary (2020).

Term	Definition
Fake news	Disinformation and hoaxes published on websites for political purposes or to drive web traffic, the incorrect information being passed along by social media.
Misinformation	To give false or misleading information.
Disinformation	Misleading information supplied intentionally, as in counterespionage.
Propaganda	Dissemination of ideas, information or rumour for the purpose of injuring or helping an institution, a cause or a person.
Satire	The use of irony, sarcasm, ridicule, etc., in exposing, denouncing, or deriding vice, folly, etc
Clickbait	An attention-grabbing link on a website which turns out to be of spurious value or interest.

Tips

Don't just read the headlines
Always question what you read
Always question what you are told
Find out if the story is being covered by other media sources
Check the comments on Facebook to see if other "fact checkers" have provided evidence to the contrary

Fact checking websites and resources now exist to help you determine what is likely to be fake news. Check if the International Fact-Checking Network has accredited the website.

Australian fact-checking sites

RMIT ABC Fact Check
Tests and adjudicates on the accuracy of claims made by politicians, public figures, advocacy groups and institutions engaged in public debate.
The Conversation Fact Check
The Conversation in Australia checks facts reported in the media with several extra checks and balances, such as a blind peer review by a second academic expert.

International fact-checking sites

Snopes
A site that fact checks urban legends, folklore, myths, rumors, and misinformation.
FactCheck.org
A fact checking organisation from the nonpartisan and nonprofit Annenberg Public Policy Center, US.
Climate Feedback
A worldwide network of scientists sorting fact from fiction in climate change media coverage.

Consider your responsbility

Take responsibility for the information you share or publish. Check your facts first.

Evaluate your sources

Types of false information

Tips

Australian fact-checking sites

International fact-checking sites

Consider your responsbility

How to spot fake news