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Fake News: Reputable Journalism

This guide will show you how to evaluate news sources for credibility and accuracy.

Reputable Journalism

Many news articles and information sources will contain a point of view.  Information consumers should always read with an open and critical mind.  Beware of "Sponsored Stories," "Promoted Stories," and "Around the Web" content on legitimate news websites!

The Code of Ethics by the Society of Professional Journalists declares that ethical journalists should "distinguish news from advertising and shun hybrids that blur the lines between the two” and “prominently label sponsored content.”

Understanding the difference between news reporting and paid content by advertisers is key to challenging fake news. Check to see if content is marked as promoted, sponsored, or as an advertisement.

Generally Trustworthy Sources for News & Information

Official US government sources:

Independent news outlets:

  • AP News - Not-for-profit news cooperative covering worldwide breaking news and investigative reporting
  • C-SPAN - Coverage of unedited political and non-political public policy events, interviews and historical programs
  • Reuters - Reuters' editorial policy states: "We are committed to reporting the facts and in all situations avoid the use of emotive terms. The only exception is when we are quoting someone directly or in indirect speech."

International News Sources

Additional Perspectives