There are multiple ways to categorize fake news. Review the sections below to gain a better understanding about the different ways fake news can be broken down.
Fake news has become a rather broad term (including things like hoaxes, misinformation, urban legends, satire, propaganda, etc.). So when breaking things down into categories, it can be more beneficial to use the not-so-technical term "fake stuff." There are a few different ways to categorize "fake stuff," but generally, it can be put into these 5 categories:
There is a commendable movement that calls for more precision when categorizing and talking about fake news – doing away with the simple and encompassing term that “fake news” has become. The idea is to make specific distinctions on the many different types of misleading news, which is especially important when considering how to best teach and inform how to spot these different types and how to dissect them.
EAVI (European Association for Viewers Interests) breaks down misleading news into 10 categories:
There are also 4 bonus categories:
First Draft "is a global non-profit that supports journalists, academics and technologists working to address challenges relating to trust and truth in the digital age."
To better understand the complexity of fake news, First Draft has created a list of seven types of misinformation and disinformation.
Many of these resources and programs are funded under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.