Product Overview of Teyit
Teyit is a prominent fact-checking outlet based in Turkey, dedicated to tracing and combating disinformation and misinformation on social media and the internet.
Purpose and Mission
Teyit’s primary mission is to enable internet users to access accurate information by performing thorough verifications on various domains, including commonly known false facts, suspicious information on social media, claims made by media outlets, and urban myths. The organization aims to foster critical thinking and increase digital media literacy among the public.
Key Features and Functionality
Fact-Checking Methodology
Teyit employs a rigorous fact-checking methodology that involves several stages:
- Scanning: Identifying and gathering suspicious news and claims through a management panel named “dubito”.
- Selecting and Prioritizing: Claims are prioritized based on criteria such as verifiability, prevalence, and importance.
- Investigating and Publishing: Designated claims are investigated and the results are published, categorizing claims as ‘true,’ ‘false,’ ‘mixed,’ or ‘unsubstantiated’.
Tools and Resources
Teyit utilizes a variety of tools and resources for verification, including:
- Reverse visual search methods
- Software like Invid for video verification
- Forensic web and Foto Forensic for photography analysis
- Map and traffic applications
- Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
- Reliable data sources from institutions like the Turkish Statistical Institute, OECD, IMF, and World Bank.
Statement-Checking Project
In addition to standard fact-checking, Teyit has a specialized statement-checking project that focuses on evaluating the misleading aspects of political statements made by politicians. This approach goes beyond simple true/false labels, providing context and highlighting the nuances of the statements.
Educational Initiatives
Teyit offers education programs aimed at increasing digital media literacy among the wider public. These initiatives are part of the organization’s commitment to social impact and empowering citizens to critically evaluate online information.
Financial Transparency and Sustainability
Teyit is notable for its transparent financial practices and sustainable business model. The organization generates revenue through partnerships with companies like Meta and TikTok, grants from philanthropic entities, and support from its audience via Patreon. This diversified revenue stream ensures the independence and sustainability of the outlet.
Collaborative Journalism and International Cooperation
Teyit is a member of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN), reflecting its commitment to collaborative journalism and international cooperation. This membership enhances its credibility and allows for broader impact through global collaborations.
Social Media Engagement
Teyit maintains a strong presence on various social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. The organization uses these platforms to engage with its audience, share fact-checked content, and increase interaction through videos, stories, and other engaging formats.
Conclusion
In summary, Teyit is a robust fact-checking platform that combines advanced verification tools, a transparent and sustainable business model, and a commitment to education and social impact to combat misinformation and promote critical thinking in the digital age.