A single wild claim can spread fast. Conspiracy stories grab attention because they promise secret explanations and easy answers. That makes them sticky, even when they’re wrong. You don’t need a degree to spot BS — just a few quick checks and some common sense.
Start with the source. Who published this? Reputable news outlets and academic journals follow verification steps; social posts and anonymous sites usually don’t. If the piece has no byline, no contact info, or no clear publisher, treat it skeptically.
Look for evidence, not just claims. A legit story links to documents, official statements, or named experts. Conspiracy posts often rely on hearsay, unnamed “insiders,” or screenshots with no context. Ask: what would prove this claim wrong? If there’s no clear test, it’s probably not solid.
Check dates and context. Old photos, past events, or opinion pieces sometimes resurface as “new proof.” Reverse-image search can show where a photo first appeared. A viral video might be real but unrelated to the event it's paired with.
Watch for language that pushes emotion. If the post is designed to outrage, scare, or promise a shocking secret, that’s a red flag. Clear reporting stays measured and cites sources.
Compare expert consensus. A single person with a bold claim is different from a field of experts saying the same thing. For topics like health, science, or law, check reputable institutions and multiple independent specialists.
Use fact-check sites: Snopes, Full Fact, FactCheck.org, and AFP Fact Check are useful. For images and videos, use Google Reverse Image Search or TinEye. For social posts, check the original account and see if trusted outlets have covered the story.
If a source links to a study, open the study. Read the abstract and conclusion — not just headlines. Watch for small sample sizes, conflicts of interest, or methods that don’t match the claims.
Before you share, take a 30-second pause. Ask: have I checked the source? Could this be old or out of context? Am I sharing this because it shocks me, or because it’s verified?
If someone you know believes a conspiracy, ask questions instead of attacking. Ask what evidence would change their mind. Share clear sources and suggest a simple verification step like a reverse-image search together.
On Desert Rose Daily, some topics spark wild theories — from crypto rumours to diplomatic deals. We try to link sources and update stories as facts emerge. Use the checklist above when you read or share any headline, and you’ll cut down on confusion and harm.
Want a cheat sheet? Bookmark a couple of fact-check sites and keep a reverse-image search link handy. That small habit stops most false stories before they spread.
H.D. Kumaraswamy, former Chief Minister and JD(S) leader, accuses current leaders of distributing evidence to tarnish a family member's reputation ahead of elections. He claims the involvement of Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar in a scheme leveraging 25,000 pen drives containing abusive content.