Fact-checking an image
In this day and age, it is easy to manipulate any form of information. Whether it be videos, images, or anything written and typed. As a journalist it is our responsibility to verify all and any information. In chapter 4 of The Verification Handbook, it gives a guide on the basic tools of verification of images and videos. We will discuss the tools of verifying an image and discuss a fake deep image that has been discussed by a news outlet.
Chapter 4 discussed that when verifying an image, one should identify the author of the image or identify who uploaded the picture. During this step, a reverse image scan can be done. This was done with a photo found online,
This photo was published on Fox June 12, 2020 when covering Seattle’s protest. This photo was uploaded without fact checking who uploaded and whether it was edited. The fake deep picture was edited using different pictures taken in different days and by different photographers.
Another step of verification is Shadow Analysis. The main picture that had been used in the background can be clearly seen as being taken indoors with mild editing such as fading the people in the background. The shadow of the man stretching out to pick up backpacks hanging on the wall, his shadow matches with the information that he is inside. However, the picture added with the man holding the handgun, includes an odd shadow. The shadow on him holding the gun you can assume the original photo had been taken outside and not inside, the lighting and shadows on his body contrast with the background picture.
Chapter 4 also mentions to verify the location, date and approximate time the picture was taken. You can also perform a Geolocation analysis. According to The Seattle Times , the picture of the man holding the gun was taken on June 10th , he had been at the protest zone and the other image was taken on May 30th in downtown Seattle.
Fox uploaded an apology statement afterwards. However, the damage of not fact checking and verifying an image had already been done. This can cause the audience to not trust an news organization, so as journalists always fact check any images and videos.
