6 key tips for staying informed
Information manipulation is increasingly prevalent in our digital world, threatening the public’s ability to make informed decisions. However, with the rise of new technologies and the rapid spread of content online, false or distorted narratives can go viral in minutes, misleading audiences and sowing division.
To counteract this, individuals must learn how to recognise and resist manipulation. Fact-checking is a powerful tool that helps set the record straight, but awareness and critical thinking at the individual level are just as important. Each of us has the power to make a difference in this fight.
Information manipulation is a deliberate effort to mislead, confuse, and undermine public trust in democratic institutions, the media, research, and society. The consequences of these tactics can be severe, fuelling social tension, eroding community cohesion, and even affecting political decisions. Whether it involves state-sponsored campaigns, for-profit misinformation websites, or anonymous online accounts spreading conspiracy theories, the threat is real—and increasing.
To protect against manipulation, here are six essential tips everyone should remember:
Verify the source
First, always verify if the source is credible. Anonymous accounts on social media, especially those sharing sensational claims, should be treated cautiously. In some cases, actors create fake websites that closely mimic trusted outlets—a tactic known as ‘doppelganger’ operations.
For instance, a fake news site might use a domain like ‘BBC. Limited’ to deceive readers into thinking it’s a genuine BBC site. These imitation sites often have unusual domain endings, such as ‘.ltd’, ‘.online’, or ‘.foo’, which can signify deception. Before trusting any source, please take a moment to check its domain and authenticity.
Investigate the source’s history
Second, investigate the source’s history. Credible outlets usually have a clear track record and are transparent about their team, editorial mission, and funding sources. If you can’t find basic background information or details about the people behind the content, it’s wise to be sceptical. A legitimate source will not hide its identity.
Consider the tone of the content
Third, consider the tone of the content. Manipulative information often relies on emotional or inflammatory language designed to provoke outrage, create enemies, and assign blame. If a piece uses strong emotional appeals rather than reasoned arguments, particularly if it points fingers without evidence, that should raise a red flag.
Search for supporting evidence
Fourth, always search for supporting evidence. Information manipulation often involves cherry-picking facts or blending truth with fiction to create a misleading narrative. Extraordinary claims—such as sweeping accusations or grand conspiracies—require extraordinary evidence. When in doubt, cross-check the claim with established news sources or consult independent fact-checking platforms.
Diversify your sources
Fifth, diversify your sources. A quick online search can often clarify a questionable claim. Consulting multiple credible news outlets or reputable fact-checking websites can provide essential context, allowing you to compare perspectives and identify any inconsistencies or falsehoods. Diversifying your sources is vital to understanding the information landscape comprehensively.
Think critically
Lastly, think critically. In the digital age, where misinformation can spread in seconds, evaluating the information you consume and sharing critically is more important than ever. Before sharing any piece of content online, please take a moment to reflect on its origin, purpose, and tone. Protecting yourself—and others—from manipulation begins with being mindful of the information you consume and pass along.
The European Union has launched a new initiative to strengthen the continent’s defences against disinformation. The European Democracy Shield initiative includes a call for proposals to build a European Network of Fact-Checkers. This initiative aims to provide a coordinated and robust response to disinformation, particularly in regions vulnerable to pro-Kremlin narratives and foreign interference.
This programme, available from April 15 to September 2, 2025, has a €5 million funding envelope and is accessible to organisations from EU member states and from candidate, accession, and neighbouring countries associated with the Digital Europe Programme. These regions are particularly vulnerable to disinformation, including pro-Kremlin narratives and foreign interference.
The initiative seeks to empower independent fact-checkers by implementing protection schemes, building a central repository of verified fact-checks, and creating rapid response capabilities for times of crisis. It will expand the work of the European Digital Media Observatory and the European Fact-Checking Standards Network, further boosting the resilience of democratic societies against information manipulation.
Image: False or distorted narratives can go viral in minutes. Credit: Andrea Piacquadio
