How you can spot false information

When it is shared, false information can take on a life of its own and have some serious consequences.

It can lead to health scares, false accusations and potentially damaging hoax stories. Recently there has been a lot of this kind of false information about coronavirus.

It’s not always easy to spot, so use this checklist to cut through the chatter.

■ SOURCE: Rely on official sources for medical and safety information. Check the facts about coronavirus on official websites.

■ HEADLINE: Headlines don’t always tell the full story. Always read to the end before you share articles about coronavirus.

■ ANALYSE: Analyse the facts. If something sounds unbelievable, it very well might be. Independent fact-checking services are correcting false information about coronavirus every day.

■ RETOUCHED: Watch out for misleading pictures and videos in stories about coronavirus. They might be edited, or show an unrelated place or event.

■ ERRORS: Look out for mistakes. Errors might mean the information is false. Official guidance about coronavirus will have been carefully checked.

VERIFIED SOURCES

You can visit the following websites for verified, trusted sources of information that will help you stay safe.

■ Visit the NHS website at www.nhs.uk/

■ You can also get information via the Public Health England website at www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/publichealth-england

■ For other information regarding the coronavirus restrictions on travel and much more, visit the Government website at www.gov. uk/coronavirus