How To Tell Real From Fake News During India’s Tense Times
You’re checking your phone. A video flashes by — it shows what looks like an airstrike. Another post claims missiles have been launched. A forwarded message warns you to “share before it gets deleted.”
In moments like these — when tensions between India and Pakistan are running high — it’s easy to feel a rising sense of panic. And in the middle of it all, it becomes harder to tell what’s real and what isn’t.
You’re not alone in feeling this way. During situations like this, misinformation spreads quickly, often faster than facts. And that’s exactly what makes it so dangerous.
At The Better India, we believe that staying informed shouldn’t mean feeling anxious or helpless. This guide is here to help, with simple, practical ways to verify what you’re seeing online, and steps you can take to protect yourself and others from the confusion fake news creates.
Why is fake news spreading so quickly right now?
There’s a term often used in situations like this: the fog of war. It refers to the confusion and chaos surrounding conflict, where verified information is scarce, and speculation fills the gaps.
Misinformation thrives in this environment, often for these reasons:
- Fear and urgency: We tend to share things quickly when we’re anxious or worried.
- A flood of content: Social media doesn’t slow down, even when the facts haven’t caught up.
- Deliberate attempts to mislead: In some cases, misinformation is weaponised to incite fear, create divisions, or destabilise trust.
Fog of war refers to the confusion and chaos surrounding conflict, where verified information is scarce, and speculation fills the gaps.
What can you do? Start with these steps
You don’t need to be an expert to spot fake news. A little awareness and a few simple habits can make a big difference — for you and the people around you.
Before you believe — or forward — anything, pause and ask:
- Is this from a verified news outlet or government source?
- Is this being reported by more than one credible organisation?
- Does this post have details, evidence, or links, or just a dramatic caption?
Be extra cautious about:
- Accounts with no history or profile picture
- Posts quoting “military insiders” or unnamed sources
- News from websites that sound unusual or unfamiliar
A quick search on Google or a trusted news site can often tell you what’s real and what’s being distorted.
2. Reverse search any image or video
A large percentage of viral conflict content is actually:
- Old footage being shared as if it’s new
- Videos from other countries or unrelated incidents
- Edited clips made to mislead viewers
Use tools like Google Lens or InVID to check when and where a photo or video first appeared.
It takes just a minute and can save a lot of confusion.
3. Rely on trusted fact-checkers
India has several reliable platforms that verify viral claims and images. They often debunk misinformation within hours of it being posted.
Some trusted sources include:
Before you forward a viral post, check if one of these platforms has already verified it.
What You Can Do During India-Pakistan Tensions: A Responsible Citizen’s Guide
By TBI Team
4. Learn to spot AI-generated or manipulated content
With tools like deepfake generators and AI voice software becoming more common, it’s important to know what to look for:
- Faces that don’t move naturally, or skin that looks too smooth
- Audio that doesn’t match lip movement in videos
- Robotic-sounding voices in “leaked” audio clips
- Blurry or distorted backgrounds in images
If something feels slightly “off”, take a closer look or search for expert analysis on fact-checking platforms.
5. Be wary of posts that stir panic
Posts that go viral often use exaggerated, emotional language to get attention. Be cautious of:
- Phrases like “BREAKING!”, “SHARE BEFORE IT’S DELETED!”, or “THE MEDIA IS HIDING THIS!”
- Content that provokes fear, anger, or outrage without providing any credible source
A good rule to follow: if it makes you feel something very strongly, verify it before reacting or sharing.
Be cautious of exaggerated language in viral posts.
6. What NOT TO DO when you see alarming news online
Sometimes, the way we engage with content, even unintentionally, helps fake news spread faster. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Don’t rely on screenshots of tweets or headlines — they can be easily edited or taken out of context
- Don’t forward information just because someone you trust sent it — even good intentions can spread misinformation
- Don’t assume blue checkmarks mean credibility — especially after recent verification changes on platforms like X
- Don’t trust forwarded voice notes or “breaking news” without a timestamp or source
These small habits, when avoided, can significantly reduce the spread of false information in your network.
7. Use your phone to protect, not panic
In moments like these, your actions online matter more than ever. A few mindful habits can go a long way:
- Pause before sharing anything.
- Report fake or misleading content to platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, or X.
- Have gentle conversations with friends or relatives who may be unknowingly spreading misinformation.
You don’t need to argue. Just offer tools, links, or fact-checked resources.
Be mindful of how you engage with viral content. Small habits can significantly reduce the spread of false information in your network.
Bottom line: It’s okay to feel overwhelmed
These are stressful times. The headlines can be heavy, and the speed of information can be dizzying.
If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, take a step back. You don’t have to know everything immediately. Focus on what’s verified, and give yourself space to breathe.
The most powerful thing you can do right now — for yourself and for others — is to stay calm, stay informed, and stay thoughtful.
Let’s choose clarity over chaos, together.
Edited by Leila Badyari Castelino
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