What is fake news?

Fake news is made up of two terms. “Fake” means “falsified” and “news” means “news”. So it’s fake news. Lurid headlines, fake pictures, and allegations are used to spread lies and propaganda. Fake news gives the impression that it is real news. The landscape design industry is not an exception to fake news.

Why is there fake news?

Fake news is supposed to impress people. Readers should click, like, and forward the fake news. This is how money is made. Criminals use fake news for scams.

Dangerous fake news

Some fake news infiltrates computer viruses. With their help, the personal data of the users are spied out. This is also called “phishing”. This data can be misused. Fake news is also used for political agitation. False claims that fabricated scandals are supposed to shake the credibility of politicians. This is particularly dangerous in an election campaign. Because in the election campaign people want to be informed seriously and correctly – as usual. So politicians depend on people to believe them. With fake news, however, wrong things are said. People are being manipulated.

Recognize fake news

It is often not easy to tell whether it is real news or fake news.

Look at the news carefully

If everything looks like a headline, if it is all about sensation then be careful. If only one opinion is being expressed, with no explanation, if the mood is to be raised, then be careful.

Always think before you forward a message

If you have any doubts about the authenticity of the message: Better not like it and spread it.

Read critically

Numbers and quotations are often mentioned in fake news. They appear without anyone realizing where they come from. Caution is advised here. Check if the post is very one-sided. Is there only one opinion or are other opinions also discussed?

Check Sources

The real news comes from reliable sources. Check who is spreading the message! There must be an “imprint” on every publication. There must be the name, address, and contact details of the person who is responsible for the messages on the site. If this information is missing or incorrect, caution should be exercised. If other media do not spread this message, there is a reason to doubt the accuracy of the message.

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