How we rate claims at 211 Check

211 Check fact-checking and information verification platform is managed and run by #defyhatenow South Sudan, an NGO registered in South Sudan with a registration number 2285. 

Our values set out how we operate as a fact-checking entity, how we select claims [statements or stories] to check and the way we conduct our research.

Below we elucidate the ratings we give once we have conducted that research: how we decide the ratings, what they mean and how you can check our findings.  

Deciding our ratings at 211 Check

When our fact-checkers complete their investigations, three staff members–the report fact-checker and two editors [Associate and Managing Editors] – deliberate on the suitable rating for the claim. In case they do not all agree, they take a vote. 

We choose each rating to give readers the clearest understanding of the accuracy of the statement we can – according to the best evidence publicly available at that particular time.

Below are the five key principles behind our ratings.

True

The claim is accurate, according to the best evidence publicly available at the time, and leaves out nothing significant. 

False

The claim is inaccurate according to the best evidence publicly available at the time.

Unproven

Evidence publicly available at the time neither proves nor disproves the statement. More research is needed.

Misleading 

Elements of the claim are accurate but presented in a way that is misleading.

Exaggerated

The claim exaggerates the facts.

Understated

The claim understates the facts.

Checked

Multiple claims have been fact-checked.

Hoax

A falsehood deliberately fabricated to masquerade as the truth, humorous or malicious deception.