Skip to Main Content
CPCC Library logo

How to Spot Fake News: What Is Fake News?

This guide provides information and tips on examining news critically, including how to spot fake news and how to fact check and evaluate sources.

What is Fake News?

Fake news are simply stories that are published that have no factual basis or evidence, usually to make money or cause harm to a person or group. Fake news stories often look similar to real news, so it is more important than ever to consume and share news critically and thoughtfully.  

This guide provides you with the tools to evaluate the news you see and hear on social media, websites, newspapers, television, and radio. The ability to examine information critically and use it responsibly is commonly known as information literacy.

Navigate the guide by clicking on the tabs at the top of the page. Use the tools we suggest on each page when reading and sharing news and expressing your opinions, and you will be an informational guru!

Fake News Quiz

Examples of Fake News

Fake news is most often made for profit, but can also be used to cause harm. If you missed it, here's an article about the man from North Carolina who fired a gun into a pizza restaurant in Washington, D.C. based on a fake news story that Hillary Clinton was running a child sex ring from the store.

Eli Pariser Filter Bubbles