Let’s face it: social media is all over the place. TikTok is banned. TikTok is back. Whatever app you use, your feed is probably full of hot takes, trending stories, and viral memes. But not everything you scroll past is legit — especially with recent changes. Facebook has shut down its fact-checking tools, and X (formerly Twitter) has dialed back content moderation, making it harder than ever to know what’s real. Add AI-generated posts to the mix, and it’s easy to see why misinformation is everywhere. Here’s the good news: You can still stay informed while dodging the drama. 

1. Stick with Reliable Sources 

On one hand, free speech allows people to say whatever is on their mind. On the other hand, free speech lets people say nearly anything, true or not. Let a responsible team of paid professionals do the legwork of answering, “Wait … is that true?” Instead of relying on random posts or sketchy websites, turn to trusted news outlets like Reuters, the Associated Press (AP), the BBC, or PBS. These sources are consistently acknowledged for rigorous fact-checking and balanced reporting. Reliable sources = reliable info. 

2. Go Straight to the Source

It’s true that organizations may not want to make public statements about all of their activities. But if someone is quoting an organization, referencing a study, or citing policy, it should be confirmed at the source. NIH studies are searchable. Bills that have been introduced can be read in their entirely. Be wary of generic language like “studies have proven” or “the law says”. Ask yourself, “Which study, by whom?” or “Which law, in which jurisdiction?” Many organizations will correct misinformation when they see it going viral to set the record straight. Don’t forget about Pitt’s website — it’s the go-to place for updates about campus life, events, and policies! 

3. Trust, but Verify, Your Gut 

Not sure if that viral TikTok or screenshot is legit? Ask someone you trust — maybe a roommate, a professor, or that one friend who seems to know everything. If your gut is telling you that something seems off, trust it. A second opinion can save you from sharing something embarrassing or worse, spreading false information.

4. Curate Your Feed Like a Pro 

Social media algorithms are always watching. The more you click, like, share, or comment on certain types of content, the more your feed will start showing similar posts. Remember that interacting negatively with content (disliking, commenting to refute something incorrect) is still interaction, and is likely to send more of it your way. That’s a dangerous rabbit hole, because when you see repeated information, you can start to perceive it as more truthful (the illusory truth effect).

Want to see more reliable news and fewer conspiracy theories? Engage with credible sources and unfollow/block accounts that push questionable content. Pro Tip: If you’re tired of doomscrolling, try following some fun, hobby-oriented, or educational accounts (like Pitt IT). Engaging with cute cats, sports trivia videos, or tech tips can divert the algorithm away from politically-charged topics.

5. Be Wary of AI-Generated Content 

AI can do some cool stuff, but it’s also known for spreading false information. If a post looks too good or too weird to be true, double-check it before believing it or sharing it. A quick Google search or a fact-checking website like Snopes.com can help you confirm the facts. 

What to look for in images: AI-generated images have a few tells. The key is to pay attention to the details. Look for unusual proportions, such as faces without noses or hands with extra fingers. Check for pixelation, blurriness, or strange color patterns, as well as inconsistent lighting or shadows. See if there are repeated patterns or noticeable effects, such as every cloud having the same shape. A Google image search will often help you track down the original.

Why Misinformation Matters 

Misinformation isn’t just annoying; it can have real consequences. It can cause distrust in the media or public institutions, undermine the democratic process, stoke harmful conspiracy theories and hate speech, or spread false or discredited science that impacts public health, the environment, public education, and more.

You have the tools to be smarter and more thoughtful digital citizens. So, keep your feeds fresh, your sources credible, and your B.S. detector on high alert. 

Stay smart, Panthers.

-- By Haree Lim, Pitt IT Student Blogger