Snopes

Snopes

Type of site	Fact-checking website
Owner	Snopes Media Group
URL	snopes.com
Commercial	Yes
Registration	Optional
Launched	1994
Current status	Active

Snopes is a fact-checking website that was founded in 1994 by David Mikkelson and Barbara Mikkelson. It is one of the oldest and most respected online resources for verifying and debunking urban legends, internet rumors, and other forms of misinformation. The site is known for its thorough research and commitment to providing accurate information to the public.

History

Snopes was originally conceived as a project to explore urban legends and folklore. The Mikkelsons, who were married at the time, started the site as a hobby, but it quickly grew in popularity as the internet became a primary source of information for many people. Over the years, Snopes expanded its scope to include fact-checking of political claims, viral hoaxes, and fake news.

Content and Methodology

Snopes covers a wide range of topics, including politics, science, entertainment, and more. The site employs a team of researchers and writers who investigate claims and provide detailed analyses of their findings. Each article typically includes a "True" or "False" rating, along with a comprehensive explanation of the evidence supporting the conclusion.

The methodology used by Snopes involves:

• Thorough research using credible sources
• Cross-referencing information from multiple outlets
• Consulting experts when necessary
• Providing transparency about sources and methods

Impact and Recognition

Snopes has been recognized as a leader in the field of fact-checking. It is a member of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) and adheres to its code of principles, which include commitments to nonpartisanship, transparency, and accountability.

The site has been cited by numerous media outlets and has played a significant role in debunking false information, especially during election cycles and major news events.

Criticism and Challenges

Despite its reputation, Snopes has faced criticism from some quarters, often from individuals or groups whose claims have been debunked by the site. Additionally, the site has had to navigate challenges related to funding and maintaining independence, especially as the demand for fact-checking has increased.

Also see

• Fact-checking
• Fake news
• Urban legend
• Misinformation
• David Mikkelson