1.1.1.1 Bringing the indicators together
Once you have completed all the verification steps necessary for the purpose and
objective(s) of your assignment, you will have to determine whether the content that
has been analyzed can be considered ‘verified’. In other words, are you now able to
prove that the content you have been analyzing not only occurred, but that it did so
at the time and date outlined, and in the location mentioned. In order to determine
this, you need to look at whether the steps you conducted in the verification process
have led you to this conclusion. If you are able to prove that the time, location, and
event depicted match up, then the video is likely verified. If there is still significant
doubt that the video or image is verified, you may need to classify it as
‘inconclusive’.
Some content will naturally be easier to verify and it is not always necessary that
each step comes to a solid confirmation for the overall content to be confirmed.
Also, keep in mind that some content may be impossible to verify, so it is important
to learn when to walk away from a piece of content. If any doubt arises, it may be
useful to seek advice or review from a peer or colleague.
Ultimately, always remember that this is a learning process - it takes time.
Finally, it is important that you are aware of the sensitivity of the content you are
verifying. It is essential that this content is handled with care. Publishing any
findings may expose the people linked to the content, such as the uploader, the
victims, or the perpetrators, but also other parties involved. This exposure could
have detrimental consequences on these individuals. Therefore, caution is strongly
advised and you must seek prior approval from your supervisors before publishing
anything.
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