Fake news is not a new thing for our society. However, due to the influence of social media, bogus stories in the twenty-first century circulate much faster than those from the days of traditional newsprint. The rapid circulation of news from one source to another causes fake news to go viral, making readers believe news that is not real. To distinguish real news from fake news, people must become digital detectives. Check the source to determine if it is a credible site with reliable content that meets standard news journalism guidelines. Examine the headline for neutrality, sensational headlines typically signal fake news. Don’t get tricked by fake news! Which statement best summarizes the author’s point of view?

The author believes that fake news has become more prevalent and spreads faster due to social media, and that people must become discerning consumers of online news in order to distinguish fact from fiction.