Fact-checkers strive to make sure every detail is accurate, even seemingly innocuous details, like names and dates. They contact every person named or quoted in a story, verify all claims (preferably with multiple authoritative sources and at least one independent non-authoritative source, following the Two-Layer Principle) and carefully examine all primary and secondary sources. They may also go beyond the sourcing provided by a reporter, especially when their work reveals that additional research is necessary to ensure accuracy.
A good fact-checker should not get involved in editorial aspects of the story or rewrite the article once it has entered checking (although if they notice that a correction is required, they should let the handling editor know and be available in case they have questions). This is to help maintain the line between reporting and verification. It also helps to keep the process as transparent as possible to the public.
Local fact-checkers are mostly staffed by reporters and, in some cases, by journalists in other roles (such as community editors or social media managers). AFP’s global network of correspondents includes more than 200 freelancers who do fact-checking across the world.
The Lab is constantly adding to its list of local fact-checkers, and it’s a great resource for those who want to find out more about the many projects doing this important work. You can access the database at no cost here. If you’re interested in contributing to the data, we encourage you to register here for access to the Data Vault and other resources.