How to spot fake news and misinformation on social media

26 Mar 2025

In today’s digital world, social media has become a popular way to stay informed and connected. However, not everything we see online is as it seems. Fake news and misinformation can spread quickly, leading to confusion and even harm. It’s more important than ever to know how to spot misleading content and protect yourself from false information.

1. Check the source

A reliable news source will have a strong reputation and a history of accurate reporting. Be cautious of websites or social media pages that you’ve never heard of before. Check if the website is reputable by looking at its About Us page or searching for independent reviews. Government websites (.gov.au) and well-known media outlets like the ABC and SBS are generally trustworthy. 

2. Look for evidence

Legitimate news articles include facts supported by experts, research or official statements. If a post makes a bold claim but doesn’t cite any sources, it could be misleading. Try searching for the same news on other trusted sites. If no major outlets are reporting it, it may be false. 

3. Watch out for emotional triggers

Fake news often plays on emotions to provoke a strong reaction, such as anger or fear. If a post makes you feel outraged or shocked, take a moment to think before sharing it. Ask yourself:

• Does this seem too extreme to be true?
• Is it designed to create fear or division? 

4. Beware of manipulated images and videos

Technology has made it easy to edit photos and videos. Some fake news stories use altered images to make false claims seem real. If something looks suspicious, use Google Reverse Image Search to check where the image originally came from. Websites like Snopes.com and FactCheck.org can also help verify claims. 

5. Check the date and context

Sometimes, old news stories resurface and are shared as if they are new. A real event from years ago might be used to mislead people about something happening today. Always check the date and read the full article to understand the context before believing or sharing it. 

6. Be wary of clickbait headlines

Headlines that are overly dramatic or sensational are often designed to lure people in rather than report genuine news. If the headline seems exaggerated, read beyond it before jumping to conclusions.

7. Report and avoid spreading false information

If you come across fake news, report it to the social media platform. Facebook, Instagram and X (previously Twitter) have options to report misleading content. Avoid sharing anything you’re unsure about, as misinformation can spread quickly and mislead others.

By staying alert and using these simple fact-checking techniques, you can confidently navigate social media without falling for fake news. Remember, if something seems too strange or dramatic to be true, take a step back and verify the facts before believing or sharing it.