By Mary Parker Draper, Extension Agent – Smith County
If it’s on the internet it must be true, right? Well, maybe not. Anyone can create a website and put information on the internet, whether it’s true or not. Infographics are also easy to create and post or share on social media. Americans use the internet to search for all kinds of information, including health-related information. People tend to seek out and find information with which they agree. The internet is a valuable source of information, but we must be cautious to ensure the information is correct. It’s important that as consumers we look for factual, balanced information. Here are some ways to check for factual information.
Who Wrote It?
The author should be clearly identified, and their credentials should be relevant to the topic. Look to see where their credentials are from.
Who Distributed It?
Look to see who distributed the information and why it was distributed. Sometimes the information has an ulterior motive or may be trying to sell you a product; the materials may be biased. Some companies may even conduct their own research and only give you the information that makes them look good.
How Are the Claims Supported or Fact Checked?
Even in articles or websites written by reputable sources, the author may show bias, so it’s a good idea to check multiple sources. You can spot check the article or website by comparing it to other reputable sources and peer-reviewed data. Check to see if the information has a list of sources that support the statements.
Who Sponsored It?
A website sponsor with an interest in making a profit is not likely to give balanced information. Website sponsors will often appear in the “about us” section and indicate who the website is sponsored by.
Is the Information Up to Date?
Check to see when the information was written or when it was last updated. Research, data, and recommendations can change frequently, so it’s important to follow up-to-date information.
What is the Web Address?
The ending of a web address can give you clues to the reliability of the information.
• A website ending in .gov means that the website is owned and operated by the government. No one but the government can use .gov. These websites have a high credibility rating.
• A website ending in .edu is affiliated with universities, colleges, and educational sites. Usually you can feel safe about the trustworthiness of the content. These websites have a high credibility rating.
• A website ending in .org was originally set up for non-profit organizations and mostly used by non-profits. For-profit organizations can also use this domain. Websites ending in .org have a moderate credibility rating.
• Websites ending in .com or .net are open for public use. These are usually commercial sites trying to make a profit or offer opinion-based information. While these websites may have some factual materials, their credibility rating is low and you should read with caution.
Does it Contain “Absolute” Words?
“Absolute” words or sensational statements are often referred to as clickbait. They are written to get your attention quickly and cause a reaction. Some examples of absolute words are ultimate, extreme, breakthrough, and conclusively.
With all the information available to us, it’s important to take time to look for the facts. Follow the recommendations above to sort through the things you find on the internet. Before you share something, make sure it’s accurate and credible.
Apple Dumplings
2 Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and quartered)
1 stick butter
8 oz. refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla
Cinnamon
Wrap one apple piece in each roll. Place in large baking dish. Mix together and bring to a boil the butter, sugar, and orange juice. Remove from heat and add vanilla. Pour over rolls. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Spoon liquid over rolls and serve warm. Submitted by Gale Burns, Carthage FCE Club.
