Quick Guide to Evaluating Information Online

August 1, 2024
An accessibly written guide that helps readers confront the epidemic of online falsehoods with tips on information literacy. This compact volume covers a number of critical topics. Teens learn that while software filters are designed to screen for hate speech, violence, and pornography, when it comes to bald lies, they are largely on their own. Steffens proffers helpful advice, explaining how bots often spread false information that proliferates due to malice, attention seeking, or commercial interests. He explains ways in which disinformation threatens democracy, individual well-being, and social cohesion and notes that advances in AI might help combat the flood of deepfakes and other AI creations that could potentially have a huge impact on commerce, politics, and security. An entire chapter is devoted to avoiding financial scams and phishing. In the chapter entitled "Recognizing Bias," Steffens includes important information about cognitive biases and how they interact with algorithms to lead us into dangerous echo chambers; he points readers to media watchdog sites and explains lateral reading strategies to bolster awareness. Another chapter warns against hazards such as catfishing, romance scams, and sextortion. Up-to-date sources and brief summaries of memorable cases bolster this concise but thorough overview. Specific advice and meaningful context make this a strong introduction to online safety. (sources, further research, websites, index, picture credits)(Nonfiction. 12-18)

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November 1, 2024
Grades 7-10 For the online generation, being able to evaluate digital information is a necessary skill. Steffen's guide outlines many key points internet users need to look out for, including identifying false and misleading information, such as deepfakes; learning how to recognize bias; and ways to be vigilant against imposters and scammers. In teaching readers about all of the above, Steffens uses real-life examples of online misinformation and explains how these threats exist in the apps and webpages we use every day. Similarly, Steffens describes the unique intricacies of the online space that allow for misinformation to be spread and users to be tricked. These arguments are supported with explanations and warnings about AI, the many motives people could have when creating misleading information, and how to handle encountering something that doesn't seem quite right. These tips are helpful for teaching online search skills and healthy social media use and training readers to be cautious and how to recognize suspicious information. This guide proves to be a conclusive and topical resource for the increasingly confusing information landscape.

COPYRIGHT(2024) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.