How Vulnerable Are You to Misinformation?

Discover your media literacy score and learn how well you can spot fake news in Canadian media. In just 4 quick questions, we'll assess your ability to recognize misinformation tactics, evaluate sources, and make informed decisions. Get personalized insights on where you're strong and where you need to improve—plus a custom action plan to protect yourself and your community.

When you encounter a news story on social media that surprises or upsets you, what's your typical first response?

I share it immediately if it aligns with my views—spreading important information is what matters. I might share it, but only after a quick glance at the source or headline. I pause and check the source, look for corroboration from other outlets, and verify key claims. I always verify before sharing, use fact-checking sites like PolitiFact Canada, and cross-reference multiple sources.

Which of these red flags would make you immediately suspicious of a news story?

I'm not sure what to look for—most stories seem legitimate to me. A sensational headline or emotional language might catch my attention, but I don't always act on it. I notice when there are no credible sources cited, anonymous authors, or pressure to share immediately. I recognize multiple warning signs: sensational language, lack of sources, anonymous authors, artificial urgency, and oversimplification of complex issues.

How many different news sources do you typically rely on for your information about current events?

Mostly social media feeds and whatever appears in my news app—usually 1-2 sources. I check 2-3 news outlets occasionally, but I have one main source I trust most. I regularly read from 4-5 different reputable outlets with varying perspectives. I actively diversify my sources across multiple outlets, fact-checkers, and journalists known for accuracy and rigorous reporting.

What's your understanding of how misinformation spreads in Canada compared to accurate information?

I assume they spread at roughly the same speed—it's all about who reports first. I've heard that fake news spreads faster, but I'm not sure exactly how much faster or why. I know that false information spreads significantly faster because social media algorithms reward engagement over accuracy. I understand that fake news spreads 6x faster than accurate information, algorithms prioritize sensational content, and corrections rarely catch up to the original false claim.