All eyes are on the latest Israel-Hamas war — and we always want to keep you informed. So before we get into some of our regular content, here are some links to check out:
Israel said it’s started intensifying attacks on Gaza — as part of the “next stages of the war.”
The Rafah border crossing is critical for getting humanitarian aid into Gaza. Here’s how it works.
A growing number of companies and employees are facing backlash for sharing — or not sharing — their views on the war. For advice on navigating difficult convos with colleagues, click here.
Since the war started, millions have scrolled through TikTok and Instagram for real-time info and updates — but have been flooded with misinformation (content that’s unintentionally misleading) and disinformation (content that’s intentionally misleading). That includes recycled video and images, a doctored doc, even video game footage taken out of context. The size and scope is so large that some experts are saying it’s “without precedent.” And it comes after widespread layoffs across the tech industry have included cuts to “trust and safety” teams, making it harder to moderate and police problematic content. Now, the EU has sent formal requests to Meta and TikTok, asking that they detail how they’ll address the problem. And it has also opened an investigation into X. (Worth noting: Both Meta and TikTok have said they’re stepping up efforts to fight misinformation.)
So I shouldn’t believe everything I see?
Probably not. For now, it might be best to be your own fact checker. Here are a few tips for doing just that…
Check the source. When you come across new info, a healthy dose of skepticism is OK — even encouraged. Ask yourself a few key questions: Is this the original piece of content? What account shared this or created it? (If you can’t find the original source, that can be a red flag.) When was the account started, and who is behind it? How many followers do they have, and how often do they post?
Do a little digging. To vet a particular claim or headline, Google the exact phrase and see if it’s been published in mainstream news outlets. You could also look at sites like Snopes.com or Poynter.org. For pictures, a quick Google reverse image search should tell you if it’s an old image that’s being repurposed. But these days, it’s also a good idea to see if it’s made by AI. To do that, experts recommend zooming in on details like hands, inanimate objects, and background text to see if they feel off. And be wary of anything that looks blurry or overly glossy. Meanwhile, to check the authenticity of a video, look for multiple edits, odd cuts, and other telltale signs. Or, use a third-party tool like InVid.
Have some trusted sources. With so much new info coming in all the time, it can be tricky (if not impossible) to verify every claim, image, and video. So consider adding a few wire services (like the Associated Press and Reuters) and gov accounts to your feeds. You could also use a news tool, like Apple, Google, or Yahoo News, which have some built-in moderation.
theSkimm
Misinformation and disinformation is surging — making it even harder to distinguish fact from fiction. And taking an already high-stakes situation up another notch.
“Normal Women” by Ainslie Hogarth…As a new stay-at-home mom, Dani has many complaints about the setup of her heterosexual marriage: namely, that her husband Clark fails to recognize the extent of her domestic labor. But as this book opens, she’s consumed with a new fear — that Clark will drop dead, and she and her daughter will be left with nothing. So when she discovers “The Temple” — ostensibly a yoga studio, but really an organization of sex workers — she decides to get involved. Dark humor, relatable protagonist, and a little mystery? Check, check, check.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. A 12-in-1 double oven that takes up minimal counter space.
This countertop double oven lets you cook two entirely separate meals simultaneously — regardless of temp or function (ICYMI: there’s 12). But don’t wait, because it’s selling fast.*
2. A set of limited-edition knives designed by a legendary chef.
Nancy Silverton's French-crafted knife set with Made In has earned a cult following. It's back in stock now and selling fast. Grab it now to level up your cheffing game.
