SWIFT Method for Evaluating Resources: Trace

• Be aware of how information is distorted as it is shared online.
• Find original source material (media, quotes, claims, research) to verify that it is being accurately presented.
• Use reverse image searching to find origins and context of shared images.
• Use fact-checking sites to verify viral information.

Fact-checking sites are often nonpartisan, nonprofit websites that try to increase public knowledge and understanding by fact checking claims to see if they are based on fact or if they are biased/not supported by evidence.

Here is a list of selected fact-checking sites you may find useful:

FactCheck.org​

PolitiFact

Rumorguard.org

Snopes.com​

Washington Post Fact Checker​

Click on the down arrow to continue through the interactive content.

Assimilation- The process where the sharer of information chooses what details to omit or emphasize based on what the sharer believes is the main theme or most interesting parts of information.

Fact-checking site - Typically unbiased non-profit sites devoted to debunking false and verifying true claims and viral stories.

Leveling- The process where details are left out as information travels further from its source.

Reporting on Reporting: When people comment or share news, often modifying the content to suit their own opinions or adding or omitting details.

Sharpening- The process where small details are added or emphasized to create more impact as information travels further from its source.