We've all heard of fake(假的) news, but do any of us really understand what it means? Is it a story that isn't real or true? Does the person behind the story make a mistake?
Actually, there are two kinds of fake news — misinformation and disinformation. Misinformation: When someone believes false (错误的) information is true and shares it with others, this is called misinformation. Disinformation: When someone knows that he is sharing false information with others, then it's called disinformation. It's important to learn how to tell fake news so that we're not tricked into believing it or letting it influence our opinions and actions.
Usually, when people share fake news, they don't realize that it's fake. Sometimes people just want to show a service or product is good, so that someone can make money. Fake news can also be shared when someone wants others to hear his own personal opinions, and be influenced by him.
The information often includes rumors(谣言) and lies and it can be spread to help or hurt a person, group, organization or even a country.
With fake news, sharing is not caring! When fake news causes stress or hurt to others, those who have helped spread it (by sharing it with friends on the Internet, for example) will say they are not to blame(谴责). In their opinion, they did not write it, they only shared it.
Sharing fake news is just like adding fuel (燃料) to a fire. It is exactly what the person behind the fake news wants and needs. If the false information doesn't get shared, it doesn't get seen. And if it doesn't get seen, it cannot hurt others. So, when it comes to fake news, we must refuse to share it too.
