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- During the last three months of the presidential campaign, fake or false news headlines generated more engagement on Facebook than true ones.
- In response, Facebook launched several new tools to flag and dispute what it calls the “worst of the worst” when it comes to fake news.
- Now, Facebook users can flag fake news stories they see being shared on the platform and will receive a notification before sharing a story found to contain false information.
- Facebook will also adjust its algorithm so that stories believed to be fake will be seen by less people, decreasing their chance of going viral.
- Slate has also developed a web browser extension that flags fake news stories and provides a link to a reputable source debunking the false information.
Class discussion questions
- Essential question: Why is fake news dangerous?
- Do you read news you come across on Facebook or social media? If so, what makes you trust that the information you encounter is true?
- How can news consumers be more responsible about the news they share on social media?
