The Press Information Bureau set up a fact-checking agency in December 2019 to curb misinformation

Fake news is often spread among the public and is a serious problem around the world. Not everything we read on the internet is true and it is best to check the facts before believing them. To alert the public, the Government Press and Information Bureau has shared five ways to spot fake news.

It is important to note that fake news is news or stories created with the intention of deliberately misleading or deceiving readers. Fake news is often created to influence opinion or for other ulterior motives. The story itself is fabricated with no verifiable facts, sources or quotes.

“Do you doubt the government? The news in question is fake. Check out #PIBFactCheck’s guide on how to spot #FakeNews, or send us your query and we’ll fact-check it,” the post was titled PIB Facts examine.

See the post here:

Do you doubt the government? Related news are all fake news⁉️

Have a look #PIBFactCheckA guide on how to find out #False news

or

Send us your questions and we’ll fact-check them:
📱+918799711259
📧socialmedia@pib.gov.in pic.twitter.com/a8FQN4Np2x

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) March 24, 2024

The government first requires users to check the source and always be wary of unfamiliar domain names or websites. Users should also try to read content beyond the title, as this content may struggle to get clicks. It’s important to read the entire story before forming an opinion or blindly believing a headline.

People should also ensure that information comes from trusted sources such as government agencies and websites.

“Find sources of support. Cross-check to see if the story has been reported by other media outlets,” the government wrote.

The final step is to always be mindful of what you share online. “Do not repost posts or stories without verification,” the government added.

The Press Information Bureau launched this fact-checking body in December 2019 to curb the prevalence of misinformation and fake news on the internet. It claims its aim is to “identify misinformation related to government policies and programs circulating on various social media platforms”.