Can you think of news events where you were fooled by a rumor or a false image or video? Traditionally journalists didn’t have to worry about rumors and fabricated images and videos. They would fact-check information, realize it was false and drop it ‘on the cutting room floor’. Journalists only report the truth. But some would argue that, in an age of social media, audiences now need help navigating the online space. Buzzfeed reporters in particular have become experts in collecting lists of rumors and misinformation during breaking news events. Do you think journalists have a responsibility to offer this service? Or do you think audiences should develop the skills to do this themselves?
