2. Triangulate and challenge the source Once you go through the above steps ask yourself: • Do the images/videos/content make sense given the context in which it was shot/filmed? • Does anything look out of place? • Do any of the source’s details or answers to my questions not add up? • Did media outlets or organizations distribute similar images/videos? • Is there anything on Snopes related to this? • Does anything feel off, or too good to be true? When getting in touch with the source, ask direct questions and cross-reference answers to information you get through your own research. Make sure that their answers match up with your findings. For images: • When questioning, reflect what you know from the EXIF data and/or geolocation information from tools like Google Street View and Google Maps. • Ask them to send in other additional images that were shot before and after the image in question. • If the image is from a dangerous location, always check if the person is safe to speak to you. For videos: • If you have doubts over construction of the video, use editing software such as VLC media player (free), Avidemux (free) or Vegas Pro (licensed) to split a video into its constituent frames. 3. Obtain permission from the author/originator to use the content Copyright laws vary from country to country, and the terms of conditions differ from service to service. Obtaining permission to use images, video and other content is essential. When seeking permission: 1. Be clear about which image/video you wish to use. 2. Explain how it will be used. 3. Clarify how the person wishes to be credited. Do they want to be credited with a real name, a username or anonymously? 4. Consider any consequences of using the content and/or name of the person. Is it necessary to blur the faces for privacy and security reasons? Will the creator/uploader be put in danger if you credit them by real name? 102