Fake news is about to surge — Will you fall for it?

Meta is shutting down its third-party fact-checking program, a move that could have significant implications for the spread of misinformation on Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms.

For years, fact-checkers have played a critical role in curbing the spread of false or misleading content online. Without them, experts warn that misinformation could surge, comparing the change to disabling a spam filter in an email inbox.

The decision comes amid increasing pressure from politicians who argue that tech companies have overstepped in moderating content and limiting free speech.

However, critics caution that removing fact-checking measures could lead to a rise in false claims, particularly ahead of major elections.

Freedom of speech is fundamental, but so is ensuring access to accurate information, especially in elections and public health.

With social media playing an ever-growing role in shaping public opinion, the responsibility of identifying false information now falls more heavily on individual users. Experts recommend practicing media literacy, verifying sources, and cross-checking information to navigate an online landscape without fact-checking safeguards.

Meta has not yet detailed any alternative measures to address misinformation following the program’s termination.

Poltifact, Factcheck.org, Snopes, Truthorfiction and Lead Stories are also known to be reputable sources with a code of principals, so those are great places to start.