Let's not be Russian Puppets.

Reading this article has reminded me to be more careful with my info sources.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-22/russian-disinformation-campaign-targets-german-election/104929916

Double check sources by going *directly* to the news outlets and public people you trust (don't just rely on the appearance of a byline).

If something seems so juicy, you feel the angry part of yourself wants to believe it easily, double check before sharing.

Gather extra opinions/reactions/sources, especially if one group or person from a marginalised community suddenly seems to be escalating or changing the message. For example, if you start seeing a few trans people or groups saying there are no gay kids, only trans, that's fake - go check a trans friendly institution or peer support group.

(Think back to when black twitter accounts started telling black people not to vote - most of those accounts turned out to be fake.)

And most important: make yourself a list of good sources *now*. Have direct links to check so you don't have to rely on search results. Make sure you know people online who can be a reality-reference. This means increasing the diversity of your social media follows and news sources.

I'm also going to try to be more open about when I'm puzzled, even if it shows up my ignorance or unrealised biases.

#propaganda #news #InformationWar #disinformation #misinformation