Think before you share: Spotting misinformation online
In today’s digital world, information travels incredibly quickly. A video, image or message can be shared with hundreds or even thousands of people in just a few moments. But how do we know whether what we are seeing is actually true? Whether you use social media, watch online videos, play games, browse websites or simply receive messages from friends, knowing how to recognise misinformation is an important skill. And with artificial intelligence (AI) making it easier than ever to create realistic-looking images, videos and voices, thinking critically about what we see online has never been more important.
Misinformation is false or misleading information that is shared, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Some content is deliberately created to mislead people, attract attention or encourage strong emotional reactions. Other information may simply be outdated, taken out of context or shared without anyone checking whether it is accurate.
You might come across:
- Misleading headlines: Headlines designed to grab your attention but that do not accurately represent the information in an article or video.
- Edited images: Photographs that have been altered, cropped or manipulated to create a false impression.
- Deepfakes: Videos, images or audio recordings that use AI to make someone appear to say or do something they never actually did.
- AI-generated content: Images, videos, voices and written information created using artificial intelligence that may look or sound believable, even when the content is inaccurate or completely made up.
- False rumours: Messages or claims shared between friends, in group chats or online communities without reliable evidence.
- Out-of-context content: Genuine photographs, videos or statements presented in a way that changes their original meaning.
The challenge is that misleading content is not always easy to recognise. Technology has made it possible to create convincing material that can be difficult to distinguish from reality.
Artificial intelligence is changing the way we create, access and share information. AI tools can be useful for learning, research, creativity and problem-solving. However, they can also be used to produce misleading content.
There are some warning signs to look out for when viewing AI-generated or manipulated content. These might include unusual facial movements, inconsistent lighting, unnatural voices, strange background details or images that do not quite look right. However, AI technology is improving rapidly. Some manipulated content is now so convincing that visual clues alone are not enough to determine whether something is genuine.
Consider:
- Can you find the original photograph, video or recording?
- Have reliable news organisations reported on the same story?
- Has the person or organisation involved made an official statement?
- Is there evidence to support what the content is claiming?
- Could the content have been edited or taken out of context?
Developing good digital habits can help you avoid being misled and prevent false information from spreading. Before believing, repeating or sharing something online, try these five simple steps.
1) Check the source
Who created the information? Is it from a recognised news organisation, government department, educational institution or reliable expert? Look closely at the website, account or person publishing the information. Be cautious of unfamiliar websites, anonymous accounts and pages that imitate legitimate news organisations.
2) Check the date
Is the information current, or is an old story being shared again? An article or photograph from several years ago can easily be presented as something that has just happened. Always check the original publication date and consider whether the information is still relevant.
3) Look for supporting evidence
Does the post provide facts, statistics, research or links to reliable sources? Be cautious of statements that make dramatic claims without providing evidence. If something sounds shocking or unbelievable, take the time to investigate it. Remember that a large number of likes, views, comments or shares does not automatically make something true.
4) Question images and videos
Photographs and videos can be edited, manipulated or generated using AI. Consider where the image originally came from and whether it matches the event being described. Look for the original photograph or video rather than relying on a screenshot or repost. You can also use reverse image search tools to investigate where an image first appeared and whether it has been used in a different context. And remember, even a genuine photograph or video can be misleading if it is presented without the full story.
5) Think about the purpose of the content
Why has this information been shared? Is it trying to inform, entertain, persuade, sell something or provoke an emotional reaction? Some content is designed to make you feel angry, frightened, shocked or extremely excited because strong emotions can encourage people to react or share without thinking.
Take a moment to consider whether the content is genuinely trying to inform you or simply grab your attention.
Every time we share, repeat or recommend information, we contribute to what other people see and believe. Even if you do not create misleading content yourself, repeating an inaccurate claim or forwarding a questionable message can help it spread. This applies to social media posts, group chats, gaming communities, conversations with friends and even things you share at school.
Being a responsible digital citizen means taking ownership of the information you pass on. It also means being comfortable saying: “I’m not sure if this is true, so I’m going to check first.” If you discover that you have shared something inaccurate, do not ignore it.
Correct the information, remove the post or message where appropriate and let others know that the original claim was incorrect. If something online makes you feel uncomfortable, worried or unsafe, speak with a trusted adult, such as a parent, carer, teacher or school wellbeing staff member.
The internet provides incredible opportunities to learn, connect, explore new interests and discover different perspectives. But it also means we all have a responsibility to question the information we encounter. Remember that not everything you see or hear is necessarily true. The next time you come across a shocking headline, suspicious image, unbelievable video or surprising claim, resist the urge to immediately believe it or pass it on.
Take a moment, ask questions, check the facts. Your online responsibility starts with one simple habit:
Think before you share.
Find out more: Explore these Victorian Government resources for more information and practical tips:
- Safe Socials – For students (Secondary) practical advice on social media pressure, online balance and getting support.
- Digital Technologies – Responsible Use: Resources Victorian Department of Education resources for students, schools and families.
- Safe Socials a collection of resources supporting safe and positive online experiences.
- Safe Socials – Parents and carers (Secondary) advice for families on supporting young people’s online safety and wellbeing.
Leesa Lewington
Student and Community Liaison