Methodology for Fact-Checking What Kind of Stories Do We Cover?
The Fact Check team at Want Cricket is vigilant in identifying news or social media posts where false information is presented as fact or correct information is shared inaccurately. Examples of the types of posts we address include:
- Verifying claims made by politicians or individuals in significant government positions in India.
- Identifying false information shared for or against political parties/leaders.
- Addressing posts from Facebook pages or Twitter handles spreading hatred using fake information.
- Investigating suspicious messages sent by our readers.
- Exposing scams and rumours that could cause fear or panic among the public.
- Debunking misinformation related to health, business, and the economy.
Where Do We Get Our News From?
Our sources are diverse, ranging from WhatsApp forwards to Prime-Time debates. We scour social media, messaging platforms, and mainstream print and audiovisual media to gather our stories. Prominent sources include:
- WhatsApp forwards
- Profiles of trolls and politicians
- Trending hashtags
- Facebook and Twitter
Community members can contact us at [EMAIL OR PHONE NUMBER] for information verification.
How Do We Bust Fake News?
Upon identifying suspicious content, we:
- Use tools like Google and Yandex Reverse Image Search, InVid Fake News Debunker, and Photograph Exif Tools.
- Search the internet using various filters (date, time, etc.) to trace the origin of posts and messages.
- Contact individuals linked to events, from common people to authorities.
- Consult experts in relevant fields to verify claims, such as doctors for health-related fact checks.
- Write conclusions based on our findings and recommendations.
How Do We Explain Our Stories?
Our stories are explained in the following format:
- The current situation that led to the spread of fake news.
- A description of the fake news and its claims.
- The primary sources of the fake news, with descriptions.
- Engagement metrics like likes and shares from different social media platforms.
- Prominent personalities sharing these stories and their comments.
- Tools used to verify the story.
- Original content and how it differs from the viral post.
- Expert opinions and comments from relevant individuals and authorities.
Conclusion
Understanding the context and motivations behind misleading posts helps us become more aware of similar content and avoid being misled.
What Happens After the Story Is Published?
If there are updates or developments, our team ensures the story is updated with relevant information, including previous claims. Apologies are issued if necessary.
Sourcing of Information
Depending on the fake information being fact-checked, sources vary. For instance:
- For stories requiring a Google search with multiple verification sources, we use credible media.
- For data stories, particularly those involving political claims, we check government websites or surveys from reputable agencies, think tanks, or research groups.
- For health claims, we consult experts.