CONFUSION OVER WHAT IT MEANS
What ‘fake news’ is. What it is not.
“Fake news” or “false news” is fabricated content presented as factual information in the guise of news.
Mistakes in reporting and editing, made in good faith in the rush of deadline, are not “fake news” or “false news.” Still such errors violate journalism standards and shall be avoided or promptly corrected. Careful reporting and editing help prevent publication of “fake news” or “false news.” Diligent fact-checking hastens exposure of misinformation and falsehood in content.
Published content violates journalism standards if: (a) It is materially or substantially contrary to facts;
(b) It is published with knowledge that it is false or with reckless disregard of the facts; and/or
(c) It is deceptive, as its real nature or origin of publication is concealed or disguised; or it is malicious, as it misleads for personal profit or partisan ends, or tends to inflict harm, sow hate, or devalue norms of traditional media.
Content shall include not only text or words but also photographs, video clips, graphics and other material presented as news or information.