Protect Yourself From Misinformation

 . Evaluate the source and content

What the Bible says: "Make sure of all things." - 1 THESSALONIANS 5:21.

Before believing or forwarding a story, even one that is popular or repeated in the news, verify that it is true. How?

Evaluate the reliability of the aource. News media companies and other organizations may slant a story because of their commercial or political bias. Compare what you see in one news outlet with other sources. At times, friends my inadvertently pass on information through email messages or social media posts. Therefore do not trust a news itemunless you can check the orignal source. 

Make sure that the content is current and accurate. Look for dates, verifiable facts, and strong evidence to support what is being said. Be especially cauious if complex information seems to be oversimplefied or if th report  is designed to evoke an emotional reaction..

Fact-checking now is becoming as important as handwashing," - Srdhar Dharmapuri, q Senior Food Safety and Nutrition Offer for the U.N. 

Ask yourself: 'Does this news report blur the line between fact and opinion or present only one side of a story?

Next time:  Protecy Yourself From Misinformation

Fromnthe jw.org publications