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Health Sciences - Evidence Based Research Guide: Fake News

This guide provide information about conducting evidence-based research in the health sciences.

What is "Fake News"?

Fake news is material disseminated online that is one or more of the following:

  • Blatantly, intentionally false
  • Hyperpartisan (displaying extreme political bias)
  • Severely lacking in credible attribution or supporting evidence
  • Old, verified news presented or repackaged as brand-new
  • Satirical or patently absurd (The Onion is a prime example)

Fake news goes beyond mistakes in reporting or misinformation. Fake news is not only inaccurate, but is intentionally false or misleading in order to push an agenda or message. 

Spotting fake news isn't always easy, but your awareness that not everything you see or read isn't factual means that you're ready to critically evaluate information. Be prepared to fact check claims and investigate where the information is really coming from. The resources on this page will help give you the tools you need to separate fact from fiction. 

Fact Checking Resources

Tools for verifying images:

Found an image you think may have been manipulated or photo-shopped? Use these tools to check for any digital changes:

Fake Stats

Look out for Dubious statistics

Coulter Library, Onondaga Community College, Syracuse, NY