Who is speaking?
Identify the named author, publisher and original source. An association’s statement can explain its position, but it should be labelled as its position. A commercial announcement is not independent reporting.
What happened, and when?
Check the event date as well as the publication date. A newly shared link may describe an old development. A proposal, a study and a court ruling deserve different headlines.
What is the evidence?
Follow the link to the original document. Does it support the specific claim, or only a related topic? Look for limitations and corrections. A long list of links is not a substitute for relevant evidence.
What is missing?
Ask whose perspective is absent and whether the article distinguishes fact from interpretation. Notice if an informational headline turns into a product pitch or an unsupported promise.
What would change the conclusion?
Good reporting can be corrected. Before sharing, consider what additional evidence would alter your view. Keep the original link and date so that an update can be traced.
General information, not individual legal or medical advice.
