GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - While social media can have its drawbacks, it has many benefits including being a tool in the fight against crime.
Applications like WhatsApp or Telegram create a platform where pertinent information can be shared instantaneously, especially among members of neighbourhood watch groups.
Charnel Hattingh, national marketing and communications manager for Fidelity ADT, said participants should however ensure they only upload and share verified information.
"Knowing how to differentiate between a real news story (or post) and a counterfeit one, will help stop the dissemination of fake stories or rumours. Use these sites and platforms responsibly to create a space where only reliable information is shared," Hattingh explained.
She added fake social media accounts thrive on posting sensationalised articles and feature stories which are laden with varying degrees of dishonest claims. "It is crucial to be able to spot the difference between these types of viral posts."
Another pitfall lies in posting or sharing images of alleged suspects which could have legal ramifications for those who make the posts. Hattingh advised against this, to avoid impacting negatively on any ongoing court cases.
"Even if it is unintentional, it could tarnish the reputation of the accused and their family. In this instance, it is harmful when the suspects are found not to have had any guilt or involvement in the alleged act of crime."
In the spread of false information, the liability does not only sit with the source of the post but those tagged in it as well.
"The onus lies with the person implicated in any suspicious post. Individuals should ensure they aren't associated with it, by untagging themselves."
Social media platforms, like Facebook, have invested in initiatives to minimise the prevalence of accounts that spread misinformation. The organisation intends to make it difficult for illegitimate sites and accounts to buy advertisements. It limits the profit produced, through ads, from any viral posts designed to drive traffic to phony news websites.
"These types of fake accounts masquerade as a legitimate news source and can be difficult to spot, but there are ways to identify the deception."
Hattingh said dishonest news sites usually include catchy and outrageous headlines to attract large volumes of readers. "Headlines are sensationalised and often accompanied by enticing images.
"These forms of click bait play on people's curiosity, with far-fetched claims. If you are to come across a headline like this, it is best not to click on it or let alone share it."
Tips for spotting fake news:
- Apart from questionable headlines and images, is the reporter's name in the byline?
- If you've found an author, check if they have written any other articles.
- Always check for multiple sources. Have you seen this story featured on other reputable news sites?
- Fake sites will often pose as a popular news site, using its name and link. This is achieved by substituting a letter, which tricks audiences into mistakenly thinking it's the well-known news organisation.
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