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Disinformation, misinformation, and fake news

Learn how to identify and avoid fake news and other types of disinformation.

How to fact-check like a pro

Learn how to combat the problem of fake news, misinformation and disinformation! Fact-check, evaluate, and stop the spread of bad information using any and all of the tools below.


Evaluate information using The CRAP Test

CRAP Test graphic.

The CRAP Test is a helpful tool to use when deciding if a source is high-quality and credible. CRAP stands for currency, reliability, authority and purpose. These are four areas to consider when evaluating a source.


Evaluate information using The SIFT Method

Logo for the SIFT Method.

The SIFT method by Mike Caulfield provides four quick moves you can do when evaluating an online source. Learn more about using the SIFT method to sort fact from fiction related to COVID-19 at Sifting Through the Coronavirus Pandemic.


Use Fact-Checking websites

CCC Librarians' favorites are listed below.

Lateral reading

Practice “lateral reading,” a strategy used by professional fact-checkers to investigate the reliability of online sources.

Blank screen, prefer the HD version, or want Closed Captioning? Watch the YouTube video.
Originally published by UofL Research Assistance & Instruction (2021).

How to spot fake news

How to spot fake news infographic. By IFLA.

International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA). "How to spot fake news," 2017. commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:How_to_Spot_Fake_News.jpg

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