Fact-checking is one of the most powerful tools for protecting communities from false information. At its core, fact-checking is simply the process of verifying whether a claim is true, misleading, exaggerated, or false.
The first step in fact-checking is to clearly identify the claim. For example, someone may post that fuel prices have doubled overnight or that a certain polling station has been moved. Before reacting, it is important to isolate exactly what is being claimed.
The next step is to trace the original source. Many false stories are reposted several times, making it difficult to know where they started. A screenshot shared in a WhatsApp group may actually come from an unverified Facebook page or an old post taken out of context.
In Zambia, many misleading governance-related claims circulate during periods of political debate. A statement about a law, public spending, or local development project may be widely shared without any official reference. In these situations, checking government websites, public statements, or credible media sources becomes essential.
Fact-checking also requires comparing information across multiple sources. If a major claim is true, it is likely that other trusted platforms will also be reporting it.
Images and videos should also be checked carefully. Across Nigeria, Kenya, and Zimbabwe, many election-related falsehoods have involved reused videos from previous events or even from other countries entirely. A video showing unrest in one country may be falsely labelled as happening in Lusaka or Harare.
One simple but powerful fact-checking habit is to check the date. Sometimes genuine news stories from previous years are reshared as if they are current. During elections, this tactic is often used to reignite fear or anger.
Fact-checking does not need to be highly technical. It starts with everyday habits: asking questions, checking sources, verifying dates, and refusing to share information until it is confirmed.
At Dikoding Deception, this is exactly the culture we want to build — a community of responsible internet users who do not simply consume information, but actively question it and use it to demand accountability.
Core Principles
1. Source Reliability
- Authority and credibility: Always consider who is providing the information. Trusted sources are typically reputable media outlets, recognized experts, or verified organizations.
- Track record: Check whether the source has a history of accuracy or has previously circulated false or misleading content.
Example: In Zambia, official government updates on policies from recognized agencies are generally more reliable than unverified social media posts.
2. Cross-Verification
- Multiple sources: Confirm information by checking if it appears across independent, credible platforms.
- Fact-checking tools: Use resources like Africa Check, PesaCheck, or local fact-checking websites to validate claims.
Example: Before sharing news of a policy change in Kenya, verify if multiple national news outlets report it.
3. Evidence and Supporting Data
- Look for proof: Reliable information is backed by data, reports, documents, or credible eyewitness accounts.
- Avoid anecdotal claims: Personal opinions, unverifiable stories, or rumors are more likely to be false or misleading.
Example: A health claim about a new treatment in Nigeria should reference official studies or ministry reports.
4. Contextual Accuracy
- Check timing and location: False information often recycles old events or distorts context.
- Understand background: Analyze the broader situation to see if the information fits logically.
Example: A video of protests in Zimbabwe might be presented as current, when it is actually from a past year.
5. Bias Recognition
- Identify slant: Consider whether the information favors a political, social, or commercial interest.
- Watch for emotional triggers: Messages that provoke fear, anger, or urgency may be designed to manipulate perception.
Example: A social media post in Tanzania exaggerating a political scandal may aim to influence public opinion rather than report facts.
6. Logical Consistency
- Check for contradictions: False information often contains internal inconsistencies or implausible claims.
- Question sensational claims: If something seems too extreme or unbelievable, it warrants further verification.
Example: A viral claim in Zambia that a new law immediately bans all mobile money could be misleading if the law only applies to certain transactions.
7. Transparency of Sources
- Anonymous vs. named sources: Anonymous posts or untraceable accounts are less trustworthy.
- Citations and references: Reliable information usually provides links, sources, or evidence for verification.
Example: A Nigerian online article citing a government report is more credible than one without references.
8. Critical Thinking Mindset
Pause before sharing: False information spreads fastest when people react emotionally without checking facts.
Ask probing questions: Who benefits from this message? Is it verified? Could it be misleading?