StopFake is a renowned fact-checking organization and media project dedicated to combating disinformation, particularly that originating from Russian sources. Here’s an overview of what StopFake does and its key features:
Purpose and History
Founded in March 2014 by Ukrainian professors and students, including Margot Gontar, Oleg Shankovskyi, Ruslan Deynychenko, and Yevhen Fedchenko, StopFake aims to refute Russian propaganda and fake news. The project was initiated shortly after the invasion and annexation of Crimea by Russia.
Key Features and Functionality
Fact-Checking
- StopFake specializes in debunking fake news and disinformation, primarily focusing on content disseminated through social media and other online platforms. It ensures that any story it features has been thoroughly fact-checked, and if a story cannot be proven false, it is not included in their reports.
Media Presence
- The organization produces a weekly television show called “StopFake News,” hosted by co-founder Margot Gontar, which is broadcast on 30 local channels. It also has a weekly radio show and a strong presence on social media.
Use of AI and Digital Tools
- StopFake leverages advanced AI tools for various tasks such as transcription and text analysis, translation, search and systematization of information, and content identification and verification (including photos and videos). Tools like Google Fact Check Explorer, Osavul platform, and the Hamilton 2.0 Dashboard are utilized to track and analyze the spread of misinformation across multiple platforms.
Partnership and Certification
- StopFake is a third-party fact-checking partner for Meta (Facebook and Instagram), ensuring that exposed fakes are tagged with missing context or misinformation. It is also certified by the Poynter Institute’s International Fact-Checking Network, adhering to strict editorial standards.
Data Collection and Analysis
- The organization employs sophisticated back-end systems for data collection, processing, storage, and indexing. It collects data from social media platforms like Twitter and news source sites, using tools like Hoaxy to filter and analyze content. This data is then visualized through an intuitive web interface to show the spread of articles and the impact of fact-checking efforts.
Funding and Support
- StopFake operates on a mix of funding sources, including grants from organizations like the Renaissance Foundation, National Endowment for Democracy, and the Foreign Ministries of the Czech Republic and the United Kingdom. It also relies on crowdfunding and donations from readers.
Impact and Recognition
- StopFake has received significant recognition for its work, including the BOBs award from Deutsche Welle and the Free Media Pioneer award from the International Press Institute. It has been praised by media outlets such as The New York Times and Politico, and is considered a “gold standard” in exposing fake news by Freedom House.
In summary, StopFake is a robust fact-checking initiative that utilizes advanced digital tools, AI, and a strong media presence to combat disinformation, particularly from Russian sources, and has established itself as a leading force in the global fight against fake news.