Project description:

A message on WhatsApp circulating under the heading “statistics to amaze you” claims details of deaths that happened due to a range of causes including Covid-19. However, the message is silent about the source and time period of the data making its authenticity doubtful. So we did a fact check.

Impact reached:

A message on WhatsApp circulating under the heading “statistics to amaze you” claims details of deaths that happened due to a range of causes including Covid-19. However, the message is silent about the source and time period of the data making its authenticity doubtful. The message says the data is from the last three months of 2021 but accurate data on the death causes except Covid 19 is not available in the public domain.  Therefore, we have undertaken the fact check with the help of authentic information available for each cause of death published in the last two years.

Techniques/technologies used:

We used Google Search and InVid tools to debunk the information. We also checked with the domain experts to understanding the reality of the issues.

What was the hardest part of this project?

The fake information spread were creating confusion among the people. So getting the facts right was very crusial for us. So we worked hard to cross-check the information with multiple resources and then wrote it in a simple language so that it reaches the masses.

What can others learn from this project?

We need to fact-check every story before publishing it. This will enhance our credibility. 

Project links:

english.mathrubhumi.com/features/specials/covid-statistics-truth-behind-the-fatalities-1.6016257