📰 Fake News & Online Scams: How Students and Parents Can Spot Them
In today’s digital world, information spreads faster than ever. Social media, blogs, and messaging apps make it easy to access news, but not all of it is true. Fake news and online scams are becoming common, and students are often among the most vulnerable because they are active online every day.
Both students and parents need to learn how to separate fact from fiction and protect themselves from falling into online traps.
🔎 What is Fake News?
Fake news is false or misleading information shared online to confuse, deceive, or influence people. It may look like real news, but it often:
Has shocking or unbelievable headlines.
Comes from unknown websites or social media pages.
Uses emotional language to push you into reacting quickly.
💻 What are Online Scams?
Online scams are tricks criminals use to steal money, personal details, or account information. They often appear as:
Fake scholarship offers.
Online shopping deals that look “too good to be true.”
Emails or texts pretending to be from banks, schools, or even WAEC/NECO.
“Click this link” messages promising free data or rewards.
🧑🎓 Tips for Students to Spot Fake News & Scams
Check the source – Is the website reliable? Well-known? Or just a random blog or WhatsApp forward?
Look beyond the headline – Many fake news posts use dramatic titles but lack real facts.
Verify with other sources – If the news is true, you will see it on multiple trusted news platforms.
Don’t share immediately – Before forwarding a WhatsApp broadcast or reposting online, pause and confirm.
Be careful with links – Don’t click suspicious links asking you to enter your WAEC number, ATM PIN, or phone details.
👨👩👧 Tips for Parents
Talk to your children regularly – Ask what they are reading online and guide them on how to confirm facts.
Model good habits – Don’t forward unverified WhatsApp messages yourself. Children copy what they see.
Teach critical thinking – Encourage students to ask: “Who wrote this? Why should I believe it?”
Use parental controls – Enable safe browsing filters and monitor unusual downloads or friend requests.
Stay updated – Know the latest scams targeting students (fake scholarships, free data offers, fake university admissions).
✅ What To Do If You Suspect Fake News or a Scam
Report it on the platform (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp).
Block suspicious accounts or numbers.
Talk to a teacher, school counselor, or parent before acting.
Delete suspicious links or apps immediately.
🌟 Final Word
Fake news and online scams can harm not only students but entire families. By working together — students staying alert and parents guiding wisely — we can build a safer digital environment where learning and communication thrive without fear.
At Adesoye College Offa, we encourage our students to be smart digital citizens — questioning, verifying, and thinking critically before clicking, sharing, or believing.
