E.S.C.A.P.E. – How To Identify Junk News
Every day we come across hundreds of messages, videos, and news posts online. Some are true, some are half-true, and some are completely fake.
In such a noisy information world, how can you tell what to trust?
One simple method that helps is the E.S.C.A.P.E. tool, developed by NewseumED to teach you how to identify junk news.
It is easy to remember because each letter stands for one key question you should ask before believing or sharing anything.
E for Evidence
Always look for proof behind what is being said. If a post claims something shocking, ask yourself where the facts come from.
For example, if you read that a certain fruit cures cancer, see if the message links to a medical study or a trusted health website. If there are no reliable sources or if the proof is just “someone said so,” it’s a red flag.
S for Source
Try to find out who created or shared the information first. Is it a well-known newspaper or an unknown website that looks suspicious? Sometimes, fake news uses names that sound similar to real ones.
For instance, a fake page called “BBC India News Update” might try to look like BBC but isn’t the same. Checking the “About” section of a page or searching its name online can save you from being fooled.
C for Context
Even real facts can be used in a wrong way if taken out of context. For example, an old photo of flood victims may be reshared during a new disaster to mislead people. Always check the date, place, and background of the content.
A for Audience
Think about who the message is meant for and how it makes you feel. If it tries to make you angry or emotional, that might be the goal. Many false posts are written to target a specific group and trigger quick reactions.
P for Purpose
Ask why this message was created. Is it to inform, to sell something, to push a political idea, or just to get clicks and views? Understanding the purpose helps you decide how much to trust it.
E for Execution
Notice how the content looks and sounds. Poor grammar, too many capital letters, or dramatic headlines often point to unreliable information.
E.S.C.A.P.E. is not a perfect test, but it’s a good habit. The next time you see a viral message or news post, pause and escape before you share.
