The digital media is rampant with misinformation. Those of us not quite tuned into the regular news cycle are even more vulnerable to the barrage of fake news and sensational stories masquerading as information and journalism. Unfortunately, in the absence of stringent news monitoring mechanisms, social media is full of such misleading stuff. With elections in Bharat just a few days away, here are a few pro-tips for Bhartiya citizens to keep themselves safe from digital misinformation and as responsible citizens, play their part in countering the same.
One important tip is to avoid sharing news obtained from social media feeds. “If you end up sharing a fake news item and thousands of others follow suit, the news goes viral within no time, thus creating unnecessary panic amongst users.” Social media algorithms are designed to highlight sensational stuff, so it’s important to resist the urge to share questionable news items.
Another tip is to not take just one source, such as X, as an authoritative source on news. “It’s still alright to share posts giving out opinions and views, but if a post claims to give some news you haven’t heard elsewhere, avoid sharing.” It’s important to use discretion and verify information from multiple sources before sharing.
When it comes to official government-related news, it’s advisable to refer to official sources such as government websites, official YouTube channels, DD news, and ANI. “A good rule of thumb to follow is to refer to official sources for getting government related news and announcements.”
WhatsApp forwards have also been a major source of spreading fake news. It’s crucial to verify the authenticity of WhatsApp forwards before sharing them. “If you receive a controversial or suspicious WhatsApp forward during the election season, please don’t start sharing it without thought. Verify the facts online and only if you find some authenticity in the message, go ahead with sharing.”
By following these pro-tips, Bhartiya citizens can help combat digital misinformation during the election season and ensure that they are well-informed and responsible in their sharing of news and information.
Image Source: hindupost.in
