MediaReview

A sibling to ClaimReview that allows fact-checkers to identify whether a video or image has been manipulated.

What is MediaReview?

MediaReview is a tagging system that fact-checkers can use to identify whether a video or image has been manipulated. It’s a sibling to ClaimReview, which allows fact-checkers to clearly label their articles for search engines and social media platforms.

By tagging their articles with MediaReview, publishers are essentially telling the world, “This fact-check examines whether an image or video that is circulating was manipulated.”

The goal is twofold: to allow fact-checkers to provide information to the tech platforms that a piece of media has been manipulated, and to establish a common vocabulary to describe types of media manipulation. By communicating clearly in consistent ways, independent fact-checkers can play an important role in informing people around the world.

Currently, MediaReview is still under development, so it is not yet being used by Google or other tech platforms. Testing by fact-checkers around the world is the next step in the open process that will lead to a more refined final product. Your feedback on MediaReview is welcome as we expand testing. Use our Contact form or contact Joel Luther at the Duke Reporters’ Lab directly.

When do I use MediaReview?

You can use MediaReview whenever you publish fact-checks that focus on images, videos, or memes. Fact-checkers are encouraged to continue making ClaimReview to assess individual factual claims that are made in an image or video, but MediaReview allows you to add additional information specific to the media you’re fact-checking.

When you use MediaReview, you will be asked to provide basic data about the image or video you are checking — for example, the URL where you found it — as well as an assessment of whether the media was manipulated. The standardized ratings that MediaReview offers, including Missing Context, Transformed, Staged, etc., allow fact-checkers around the world to use a common vocabulary.

We have collected definitions and examples for the current draft of ratings included in MediaReview. These are subject to change as we gather more of your feedback and expand testing to a global audience. We welcome your feedback either through our Contact page or by emailing Joel Luther at the Duke Reporters’ Lab.

Who do I contact if I need help with MediaReview?

The Duke Reporters’ Lab has led the open process to develop MediaReview, and we are eager to help fact-checkers get started with testing it. Contact Joel Luther for questions or to set up a training session.

International Fact-Checking Network signatories who have questions about the process can contact the IFCN.