How to stop viral misinformation

We’re in the middle of an “infodemic” – that’s the slightly clunky word the World Health Organisation has used to describe the deluge of information about coronavirus.

While some of it is accurate, the facts swim in a vast sea of more dubious content – misinformation, disinformation, conspiracy theories, unproven cures and bad health advice.

So what can we all do to stop the spread of misinformation to our friends, family and contacts on social media? We’ve talked to the experts and have collected seven key tips:

1. Stop and think

2. Check your source

3. Ask yourself, could it be a fake?

4. If you’re unsure whether it’s true … don’t share.

5. Check each fact, individually.

6. Beware emotional posts.

7. Think about biases

Think of it as the digital equivalent of washing your hands.