How to counter misinformation without amplifying it

Misinformation spreads because people who oppose it repeat it. Every time you quote-tweet a false claim to condemn it, you have paid for its distribution.

The truth sandwich

State the truth. Briefly name the false claim without repeating its exact framing. Return to the truth with evidence. Lead and close with what is true — those are the parts people remember.

The one-hour rule

A rumour is soft for about an hour after it enters a WhatsApp group. After that it becomes something "everybody knows". Digital champions should aim to place verified context in the group within that first hour.

Six practical rules

1. Never screenshot the lie. Screenshot the correction.
2. Always cite a number. Numbers travel further than adjectives.
3. Never insult the person who shared it — most people sharing misinformation genuinely believe it.
4. Concede what is genuinely true. A supporter who admits a real shortcoming is trusted on everything else.
5. Use the Knowledge Center and Setting the Record Straight pages as your source. Do not improvise figures.
6. If you cannot verify it, do not post it — including content that flatters our side.