AI has significantly upped the game about what’s on-line and in social media feeds. All sorts of groups are using this to spread disinformation. In fact, misinformation spreads 6 times faster than factual information.
People affected by chronic and/or life threatening conditions are targeted by scammers so if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
As I’m posting this the Saturday after Thanksgiving, and shopping is in full swing-note that on-line is more the norm then not, it’s important to remember that scammers love to post “special sales” on social media (e.g. Instagram, Facebook). Several things to consider:
• Before buying online, research average advertised prices before purchasing. More than a 55% discount should raise eyebrows.
• Don’t order from social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok. Those stamp sales, a popular item this time of year, are fake.
• Legitimate online vendors do not accept random gift cards for purchases.
Visit the following websites for more tips on on-line shopping:
• AARP
Below are steps to help you evaluate what’s true, false or somewhere in between.
If a claim or comment makes you angry, afraid or tugs at your heart strings: These are warning sign. It doesn’t have to make sense if it makes you mad. Research shows that evoking strong negative emotions, particularly fear or anger, increases views on social media. Consequently social media is primed for emotionally charged content. Don’t be swayed by it. Check the following video.
Check before you share: Who posted this information/What platform are they using: If it’s Tic Toc be wary. All of us have people we know who post and never check, so know your source. Before you “share” check first. Use these resources to check the facts
Duke Reporters' Lab: Fact Checking
SciCheck: focuses exclusively on false and misleading scientific claims that are made by partisans to influence public policy.
FlackCheck: The site provides resources designed to help viewers recognize flaws in arguments in general and political ads in particular.
Media Bias/ Fact Check An independent online media outlet. MBFC is dedicated to educating the public on media bias and deceptive news practices.
Follow the money: To make money or sway opinion are reasons why people post lies or half-truths. If someone wants money to view content don’t click.
Ask follow-up questions: Whether it’s on-line, in a support group or even over the dinner table, ask the source of their information. If it’s a vague answer such as ,”Everyone knows that,” or “it’s common knowledge” they most likely don’t have a source. ”They say,” is not a good answer.
Get a second opinion/source: Just as we encourage people to seek second opinions for healthcare, take the time to look for other sources of information. If they’re trying to sell something, be wary. Check with your provider before purchasing or trying something when it is in relationship to your health. If you find only one source of information, chances are it’s not legit.
Follow reputable health information on-line: There are many websites out there pertaining to health care. Some are legit and others are not. Check the URL to see what it ends in:
• .gov identifies a U.S. government agency
• edu identifies an educational institution, such as a school, college, or university
• org usually identifies nonprofit organizations, such as medical or research societies and advocacy groups
• com identifies commercial websites, such as businesses and pharmaceutical companies
Other things to look for in a website:
• Who wrote the information? When was it written? Whose reviewing it?
• Does it have a privacy policy
• What is the purpose of the website? Who owns and/or sponsors it? Check the About section.
Keep in mind that anyone can put an MD or other initials after their name. It doesn’t mean they are a doctor or even have a background in healthcare. Verify, verify, verify.
Read the comments and replies. If a claim is being shared, there is often a space for people to reply or comment. The replies and comments usually contain dissenting voices. Read the comments and replies for more information and gather other insights to help evaluate the claim.
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