Technology has led to the widespread of information and subsequently the speed of getting updates to the latest news around the world possible in just seconds. But with all good things, there’s bound to be something negative that balances it off and that’s “fake news” that could lead to social outrage and market instability before it gets fact-checked and dismissed. Here are some fun numbers – over the past 10 years, search interest for “fact-checking” has increased by x13.4 while Singaporeans take that multiplier up to x20.3. Sheesh.
To reduce the amount of chaos that could arise from these man-made “jokes”, Google has released some new tools to keep everyone informed with some needed context.
For one, Google Search results now have more background information and can be accessed through the 3 dots next to the results displayed with the most main languages used in Singapore such as English, Malay, Tamil, and Chinese. Other than that, YouTube videos will soon have additional panels attached to the top of your search results or under a video (Such as the COVID-19 banner you’ve seen dozen times a couple of years back) with the information provided by 3rd party sources.
Google also provided misinformation training for journalists who will work with the Global Fact Check Fund in collaboration with International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) across 135 organizations from 65 countries covering over 80 languages to make sure no information is twisted during translation.
The effort is also seen in the form of media literacy programs on YouTube through the Hit Pause informational videos to equip viewers with the right skill to deal with any information spread online.
More tips about fact-checking can be learn through the video below.
