What is Fake News all about?

It refers to the spreading of false information based on non-existent or distorted data which is meant to deceive and manipulate the reader, on digital online platforms (e.g. Facebook, YouTube, chain messages) or in the traditional media (e.g. tabloids). Fake news often appeals to stereotypes, people’s social prejudices, and emotions. People spread fake news because they are misinformed, misled or are being malicious.

Countering fake news involves you

Pope Francis shared in his message for World Communications Day 2018 that “none of us can feel exempted from the duty of countering these falsehoods.” With the wide spread of fake news and its subtlety, we need to learn to interpret the news we receive and where to access real information. To be discerning, rather than unwittingly contributing to the spread of disinformation.

Do your part to advocate truth and peace:

• When you receive information,
• STOP. Don’t forward it immediately.
• REFLECT. Is it charitable, respectful and honest?
• ACT. If it’s real news, share it. If you’re unsure, verify it!
• Equip yourself
• Resources: read and familiarise
• BE A LIGHT
• SHARE what you have learned with charity.

Turn to the Truth with this prayer:

Lord, make us instruments of your peace.
Help us to recognise the evil latent in a communication that does not build communion.
Help us to remove the venom from our judgements.
Help us to speak about others as our brothers and sisters.
You are faithful and trustworthy; may our words be seeds of goodness for the world:
where there is shouting, let us practise listening;
where there is confusion, let us inspire harmony;
where there is ambiguity, let us bring clarity;
where there is exclusion, let us offer solidarity;
where there is sensationalism, let us use sobriety;
where there is superficiality, let us raise real questions;
where there is prejudice, let us awaken trust;
where there is hostility, let us bring respect;
where there is falsehood, let us bring truth.
Amen.

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By Charlene Sng