A recent editorial statement in Mother Jones magazine put it well:
"We really confront two pandemics right now — the virus as well as what the World Health Organization has called an “infodemic,” as information chaos creates a breeding ground for lies and rumor. Viral misinformation relies on quick transmission to do its damage, and all of us can help slow its spread. Each one of us who refuses to share a rumor by email, Facebook post, or text message can be the one who breaks the chain of transmission. It’s like social distancing for information.
…a few simple principles: Always check the source (and where the source got it from, all the way back to a credible, established wellspring). If something seems to confirm all your preexisting notions, check it extra hard. Always look at context, especially for too-good-to-be-true anecdotes and outrageous quotes. And above all, keep a cool head. Skepticism is healthy, and transparency is the best disinfectant."
