Using "SIFT" to Evaluate Sources

Multiple Choice

What is the difference between misinformation and disinformation?

• Misinformation is true information that is used to harm, while disinformation is false.

• Misinformation is libel and slander spread offline, while disinformation is spread digitally.

• Misinformation is false information spread by accident, while disinformation is when false information is deliberately spread with intent to mislead

Multiple Choice

Imagine this headline: "New Study Finds that Smokers of Menthol Cigarettes are at 40% Increased Risk of Heart Failure." In actuality, all cigarette smokers - not just menthol fans - are at a similar increased risk compared to non-smokers. What type of disinformation is this?

• Satire or Parody

• Fabricated Content

• Misleading Content

• Imposter Content

Multiple Select

Which are examples of disinformation created by a political figure or group?

• A misleading op-ed about Obamacare written by the president of Eli Lilly (leader in drug manufacturing)

• A post from the Cuomo for Mayor Foundation suggesting his opponent was happy about 9/11

• An article in the New York Times about a recent Bernie Sanders rally

• A video of Donald Trump walking into a medical clinic with sensational headlines and commentary speculating about his health, copied and posted by multiple local DSA accounts

Multiple Select

What are some common tactics used by revenue generators to attract online engagement and generate income?

• Exploiting emotions like sympathy and anger

• Vetting sources to ensure accuracy

• Sending reporters out to get hot-button stories before anyone else

• Using sensational headlines that pique the imagination

Multiple Select

What are some reasons people might spread false information online? Select all that apply.

• Engagement Revenue

• Getting the Word Out

• Entertainment Value

• Power & Influence

Multiple Choice

Which of the following best describes lateral reading?

• Opening new tabs to research the topic, sources, and organization behind a site

• Reading one site or article from top to bottom

• Accepting the claim as true without further investigation

• Reacting with strong emotion to information

Multiple Select

Which actions should you avoid when you first encounter a claim online?

• Accept the claim as true

• React with strong emotion

• Share or repeat the information

• Scroll more on the page that posted it

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT a useful fact-checking site?

• Snopes

• PolitiFact

• FactCheck.org

• Instagram