In the batch of information that we receive, some are reliable on the other hand others are false information. So what to know about the sources of information? Our article will guide you.
Internet: a new source of information
This community of users uses this tool for different reasons: to have fun, to share, to buy or receive information, but also to educate themselves. There are always useful reference. Indeed, the use of the Internet as a source of information is more and more preferred to other traditional sources of information such as newspapers, radio or news channels, which are themselves used online. Internet users have access to almost the entire world, often free of charge and without having to travel (subway, beach, plane, etc.).
Disinformation: the rise of fake news
Fake news" is a more recent and complex phenomenon than a simple translation. French academic Pascal Froissart (University of Paris 8) defines it as "fake news deliberately published in the media". It can also be used to mislead people or influence public opinion, as was recently demonstrated during the American presidential elections. Last but not least, it is also used to make profit. Some websites use fake news to attract attention.
Tips for a better analysis of the reliability of information
Assessing the reliability of news is not an easy task. First, always check the source of the information. This can already give a first opinion on its reliability. However, be careful, it is advisable to compare different sources and check the reliability of the verification. Similarly, for images that are too often used for manipulation purposes, check whether they correspond to the context to which they are attributed. Using non-Internet media, such as encyclopedias, can also be a reliable way to verify the source and seek advice from an expert in the field.