Information Hygiene: Stay Vigilant and Verify the News

In our days the information space is overflowing with fakes, half-truths, manipulations, and hostile narratives. Fraud and scams are also common. That’s why it is crucial to critically assess and verify any information you receive — especially via social media.

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Now, let’s talk about staying safe online.

How to Avoid Being Deceived

To avoid falling into a trap, follow clear rules of information hygiene. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on advice from fact-checking organisations and media experts:

1. Evaluate the Source

   When you see a piece of information, check who published it. If it’s a media outlet, pay attention to what else the publication writes about. If all the headlines are equally sensational, that’s a red flag. Also, it’s always better to refer to the original source rather than summaries on small news websites or on Telegram channels.

2. Look for the Same News on Other Platforms

   Major news is usually covered by multiple sources. If you can only find it in one place, there’s a high chance it’s fake.

3. Evaluate the Facts and Emotions

   If your first reaction to reading something is anger or frustration — someone may be trying to manipulate you. Strong emotions blur judgement and increase the chance of believing without verifying. If the content mixes opinions with facts, that’s a red flag.

4. Fact-Checking

   Most emotional or loud claims can be verified using official websites, major news outlets, or public databases. If even one fact turns out to be fake — the credibility of the entire message is compromised.

Other Dangers

Official resources regularly warn internet users about malicious emails, phishing links, and other cyber threats. Dangerous messages can come from anyone — even people you know. That’s why it’s important to stay cautious.

Such links can steal your data, gain access to your accounts or banking information, or transmit your personal information in real time without any visible signs.

Be critical of everything you see online — and don’t ignore basic information security tools!