Organization: The Quint
Applicant: Abhilash Mallick
Assessor: Surekha Deepak
Background
The applicant is a legally registered digital news organisation, with a fact checking unit called WebQoof. WebQoof has a dedicated staff.
The Quint publishes general news stories and investigative stories and analysis and a forum for citizen journalism.
Assessment Conclusion
The signatory has compiled most of the criteria and can be accepted.
They have published more than the required number of fact checks required for compliance. Most of the stories they debunk have a recognizable impact. They cover a range of issues from health, to politics to social issues. There does not currently seem to be any political influence on the stories selected or the way in which they are written.
While many of the fact checks come from social media posts they also look at stories covered in the mainstream media. The fact checks do not carry a bias.
The Quint does not claim any financial dependence on the state or political actors, nor is there evidence of affiliation to any political party.
The fact checks cover a variety of subjects and most aspects of the topic. The process followed is well explained and carried out depending on the need of the story. All claims are checked using similar standards.
While many of the stories use digital tools to debunk. There are other stories where other sources are used. All are linked and referenced. The fact checks are replicable.
The website clearly shows ownership.
.
They use the same standards across all fact checks they publish.
The corrections policy is clearly listed on the website, with links to the IFCN complaints page.
Surekha Deepak assesses application as Compliant
A short summary in native publishing language
Language used is English
Section 1: Eligibility to be a signatory
To be eligible to be a signatory, applicants must meet these six criteria
- 1.1 The applicant is a legally registered organization, or a distinct team or unit within a legally registered organization, and details of this are easily found on its website.
- 1.2 The team, unit or organization is set up exclusively for the purpose of fact-checking.
- 1.3 The applicant has published an average of at least one fact check a week over the course of the six months prior to the date of application. For applicants from countries with at least 5 or more verified signatories need to have at least a fact check a week over the twelve months of publishing track. Consult to factchecknet@poynter.org for confirmation.
- 1.4 On average, at least 75% of the applicant’s fact checks focus on claims related to issues that, in the view of the IFCN, relate to or could have an impact on the welfare or well-being of individuals, the general public or society.
- 1.5 The applicant’s editorial output is not, in the view of the IFCN, controlled by the state, a political party or politician.
- 1.6 If the organization receives funding from local or foreign state or political sources, it provides a statement on its site setting out to the satisfaction of the IFCN, how it ensures its funders do not influence the findings of its reports.
Criteria 1.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please explain where on your website you set out information about your organization’s legal status and how this complies with criteria. Attach a link to the relevant page of your website.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
WebQoof is The Quint's fact-checking vertical. The Quint is a legally registered organisation, owned by Quint Digital Media Limited (earlier known as Gaurav Mercantiles Limited), a company listed on the BSE Limited. Mr. Raghav Bahl and Ms. Ritu Kapur are the Promoters of Quint Digital Media Limited. Please refer to the corporate website of the Company at www.quintdigitalmedia.com
Details of its legal registration are presented under the header ‘How Are We Funded?’ In the “About Us” here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago)
The applicant is a legally registered organisation, with a fact checking unit.
done_all 1.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 1.2
Proof you meet criteria
Please answer the following questions – (see notes in Guidelines for Application on how to answer)
1. When and why was your fact-checking operation started?
2. How many people work or volunteer in the organization and what are their roles?
3. What different activities does your organization carry out?
4. What are the goals of your fact-checking operation over the coming year?
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
1. WebQoof, The Quint’s fact-checking operation, was started in May 2017, in response to the revelation of disinformation campaign around the 2016 US presidential elections and comparable trends in India, particularly hateful campaigns with communal overtone.
2. There are approx 150 employees at The Quint. 5 of them work with the fact-checking operation full time, while others (for eg. journalists across the country and specialists) act as editorial input support network.
3. The Quint is an award winning digital-only news organisation which specialises in investigative, deep dive reporting and analysis on issues public and national importance. The Quint also provides a platform for citizen journalism under the My Report brand and fact-checking operation under the WebQoof brand.
4. WebQoof plans to expand its health and medical fact-checking efforts. The Quint, through its health vertical Fit, has access to certified medical practitioners. This will assist us in getting better and more specialised inputs in real time. WebQoof also plans on increasing the number of video stories being executed. About 1 out of 3 stories already get done on video. We intend to increase the frequency as well as the number of videos being done in Hindi.
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The Quint is a digital-only news organisation and they have a separate fact checking unit called WebQoof. They have stated the number of dedicated fact checking staff is 5 and that they get inputs from other journalists too.The activities of the organisation are clearly listed in the application. They publish general news stories and investigative stories and analysis. They also have a citizen journalism platform in addition to the fact checking section.
They plan to increase health fact checks as well up the number of video stories and publish in Hindi.
done_all 1.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 1.3
Proof you meet criteria
- The applicant has published an average of at least one fact check a week over the course of the six months prior to the date of application.
- For applicants from countries with at least 5 or more verified signatories need to have at least a fact check a week over the twelve months of publishing track.
- Consult to factchecknet@poynter.org for confirmation.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The Quint's WebQoof section publishes an average of 10-12 fact-check stories a week with the numbers even reaching a peak of 15-18, depending on the news flow.
The Quint's WebQoof section has been publishing over 10 fact-checks a week for over 36 months now.
All the fact-check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
done_all 1.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 1.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous three months. No additional information required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The applicant complies with this requirement. Most of the stories they debunk have a strong impact. They cover a range of issues from health, to politics to social issues.
Some fact checks have inputs from other fact checkers and are clearly attributed.
done_all 1.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 1.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please explain any commercial, financial and/or institutional relationship your organization has to the state, politicians or political parties in the country or countries you cover. Also explain funding or support received from foreign as well as local state or political actors over the previous financial year.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The Quint has no commercial, financial and/or institutional relationship to the state, politicians or political parties in the country or countries it covers.
There was no funding or support received from foreign as well as local state or political actors over the previous financial year.
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
There does not currently seem to be any political influence on the stories selected or the way in which they are written.
While many of the fact checks come from social media posts they also look at stories covered in the main stream media. The fact checks do not carry a bias .
done_all 1.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 1.6
Proof you meet criteria
If you confirmed the organization receives funding from local or foreign state or political sources, provide a link to where on your website you set out how you ensure the editorial independence of your work.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
WebQoof is The Quint's fact-checking vertical. The Quint is a legally registered organisation, owned by Quint Digital Media Limited, a company listed on the BSE Limited. Mr. Raghav Bahl and Ms. Ritu Kapur are the Promoters of Quint Digital Media Limited. Please refer to the corporate website of the Company at www.quintdigitalmedia.com
Details of its legal registration are presented under the header ‘How Are We Funded?’ In the “About Us” here:
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The Quint does not claim any financial dependence on the state or political actors. They also say they have not received any finding from foreign political actors the over the previous financial year.
done_all 1.6 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Section 2: A commitment to Non-partisanship and Fairness
To be compliant on nonpartisanship and fairness, applicants must meet these five criteria
- 2.1 The applicant fact-checks using the same high standards of evidence and judgement for equivalent claims regardless of who made the claim.
- 2.2 The applicant does not unduly concentrate its fact-checking on any one side, considers the reach and importance of claims it selects to check and publishes a short statement on its website to set out how it selects claims to check.
- 2.3 The applicant discloses in its fact checks relevant interests of the sources it quotes where the reader might reasonably conclude those interests could influence the accuracy of the evidence provided. It also discloses in its fact checks any commercial or other such relationships it has that a member of the public might reasonably conclude could influence the findings of the fact check.
- 2.4 The applicant is not as an organization affiliated with nor declares or shows support for any party, any politician or political candidate, nor does it advocate for or against any policy positions on any issues save for transparency and accuracy in public debate.
- 2.5 The applicant sets out its policy on non-partisanship for staff on its site. Save for the issues of accuracy and transparency, the applicant’s staff do not get involved in advocacy or publicise their views on policy issues the organization might fact check in such a way as might lead a reasonable member of the public to see the organization’s work as biased.
Criteria 2.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please share links to 10 fact checks published over the past year that you believe demonstrate your non-partisanship.
Please briefly explain how the fact checks selected show that (I) you use the same high standards of evidence for equivalent claims, (II) follow the same essential process for every fact check and (III) let the evidence dictate your conclusions.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
1. Irrespective of the nature of the story, we let the facts speak for themselves. We ensure that we have the story covered from all angles and all the stakeholders are given a right to response. More than versions, we rely on hard facts. For instance, a story on "Taiwan shot down a Chinese jet" was viral on the Indian social media. Now Taiwan's defence ministry issued a clarification, but for a fact-check what we relied on was imagery that was available in the public domain, with the help of some OSINT experts, to prove that the crash happened inside mainland China and not Taiwan.
2. As mentioned above, irrespective of the nature of the story, we try and get you the source of the information (or misinformation) to debunk it. Attaching an example here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/national-flag-at-lal-chowk-in-srinagar-image-is-old-and-altered
3. Attaching some examples which demonstrate that we let our evidence dictate our conclusions.
News Channels Use Old Images to Show PLA Soldiers Killed in Galwan: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/news-channels-use-old-images-to-show-graves-of-pla-soldiers-killed-in-galwan
Trump Says 10.6Mn Jobs Added in 4 Months – Facts Blot Rosy Picture: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/trump-says-106-million-jobs-added-in-4-months-but-here-is-fact-check
US GDP Fell 9.1%, Not 33% as Social Media Claimed Post Indian Drop: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/us-economy-contracted-by-9-per-cent-not-33-in-comparison-with-india
Fake Tweet on Pranab Mukherjee Attributed to Rana Ayyub Goes Viral: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/fake-tweet-on-pranab-mukherjee-attributed-to-rana-ayyub-goes-viral
Fake Twitter Handles of Sushant Singh’s Sister and Father Emerge: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/fake-twitter-handles-of-sushant-singhs-sister-and-father-emerge
Lies and Half-Truths: Donald Trump’s Viral Axios Interview: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/trumps-lies-and-half-truths-in-viral-axios-interview
Pics From Libya, B’luru Shared as ‘Indian Jet Shot Down in Nepal’: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/indian-jet-with-pilots-shot-down-during-airstrike-in-nepal-fact-check
Plandemic 2: A Less Viral But Equally Misleading Sequel: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/plandemic-2-video-sequel-continues-trend-spouts-misinformation
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The fact checks cover a variety of subjects, and most aspects of the topic.
The process followed is well explained and carried out depending on the need of the story. All claims are checked using similar standards.
done_all 2.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 2.2
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to a place on your website where you explain how you select claims to check, explaining how you ensure you do not unduly concentrate your fact-checking on any one side, and how you consider the reach and importance of the claims you select to check.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
We have a strict policy on non-partisanship. While selecting a story for fact-checking:
1. We assess the impact that fake post can have.
2. We assess the kind of damage it can do. In certain cases, posts can incite violence or can make an already sensitive situation worse, we prioritise based on the repercussions it can have.
3. We check the vitality. in some cases, the most innocuous posts which are viral can mislead/misinform people.
You can find all the additional details here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The application explains the process however, the selection processes is explained. This is not available on the website
done_all 2.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 2.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year. No additional information required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
All the fact-check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The applicant mentions the sources used in the fact checking process clearly. There is no evidence of sources that could influence the findings.
done_all 2.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 2.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year. No additional information required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
All the fact check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The applicant mentions the sources used in the fact checking process clearly. There is no evidence of sources that could influence the findings.
done_all 2.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 2.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to a place on your website where you publish a statement setting out your policy on non-partisanship for staff and how it ensures the organization meets this criteria.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
As a part of the company policy, employees of Quintillion media are made to sign an undertaking which clearly states that the employees are not directly or indirectly involved with any politicial party, candidate.
Team Members of Quintillion must not be involved directly or indirectly in any kind of political activity like advocating or campaigning for any political party or candidate, public expressions of their personal political preference (like sticking banners in their houses, displaying political stickers or slogans on their vehicles etc).
Team Members are prohibited from contesting or accepting any appointment or association of whatsoever nature with any public office.
More details of the work, methodology and the team involved can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
They have am extremely detailed policy. However this is not available on the website.
done_all 2.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Section 3: A commitment to Standards and Transparency of Sources
To be compliant on sources, applicants must meet these four criteria
- 3.1 The applicant identifies the source of all significant evidence used in their fact checks, providing relevant links where the source is available online, in such a way that users can replicate their work if they wish. In cases where identifying the source would compromise the source’s personal security, the applicant provides as much detail as compatible with the source’s safety.
- 3.2 The applicant uses the best available primary, not secondary, sources of evidence wherever suitable primary sources are available. Where suitable primary sources are not available, the applicant explains the use of a secondary source.
- 3.3 The applicant checks all key elements of claims against more than one named source of evidence save where the one source is the only source relevant on the topic.
- 3.4 The applicant identifies in its fact checks the relevant interests of the sources it uses where the reader might reasonably conclude those interests could influence the accuracy of the evidence provided.
Criteria 3.1
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
Sources are essential when it comes to fact checking and linking our readers back to the sources from where we extract information is our responsibility.
We cite sources and link it to the original document within our report. At times, when there is fear that a particular page/tweet will be taken down, we archive those and use the archived source for the benefit of our viewers or take screenshots of the page/tweet. In most instances, we get in touch with stake holders or authorities to get verification for stories and those are also well documented within our internal network to use it as a proof, if need arises.
More details of the work, methodology and the team involved can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
Additionally, we'd like to mention that in its early days, WebQoof was republishing stories, under a mutual agreement, from other fact-checking websites. So reader might find stories from other organisations on our website prior to 2017-2018.
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
While many of the stories use digital tools to debunk. There are other stories where other sources are used. All are linked and referenced. The fact checks are replicable
done_all 3.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 3.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
All the fact check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
They provide links to the relevant on line sources.
They also use primary sources directly in the process of fact checking.
done_all 3.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 3.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
done_all 3.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 3.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
All the fact check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The sources are clearly identified so the reader can conclude if there is any influence of a source on the story.
done_all 3.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Section 4: A commitment to Transparency of Funding & Organization
To be compliant on funding and organization, applicants must meet these five criteria
- 4.1 Applicants that are independent organizations have a page on their website detailing each source of funding accounting for 5% or more of total revenue for its previous financial year. This page also sets out the legal form in which the organization is registered (e.g. as a non-profit, as a company etc).
- 4.2 Applicants that are the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization make a statement on ownership.
- 4.3 A statement on the applicant’s website sets out the applicant’s organizational structure and makes clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.
- 4.4 A page on the applicant’s website details the professional biography of all those who, according to the organizational structure and play a significant part in its editorial output.
- 4.5 The applicant provides easy means on its website and/or via social media for users to communicate with the editorial team.
Criteria 4.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please confirm whether you are an ‘independent organization’
or ‘the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization’ and share proof of this organizational status.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
WebQoof, is the fact-checking arm of an award winning news organisation – The Quint – specialises in investigative, deep dive reporting and analysis on issues public and national importance.
You can find more details about our organisational structure here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The applicant has clearly stated the source of funding. Though they also invite reader contributions. They are a fact checking unit of The Quint
done_all 4.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 4.2
Proof you meet criteria
If your organization is an “independent organization”, please share a link to the page on your website where you detail your funding and indicate the legal form in which the organization is registered (e.g. as a non-profit, as a company etc).
If your organization is “the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization”, please share a link to the statement on your website about your ownership.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
You can find more details about our organisational structure and funding here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
They are compliant with this requirement. The website clearly shows the ownership.
done_all 4.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 4.3
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you set out your organizational structure, making clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
You can find more details about our organisational structure here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us
The Quint
26-Oct-2020 (4 years ago)
Here is the updated version: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The oraganisational structure is not clear on the website.
cancel 4.3 marked as Request change by Surekha Deepak.
Surekha Deepak Assessor
16-Nov-2020 (4 years ago)
The oraganisational structure is clearly presented on the about us section of the website.
done_all 4.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 4.4
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you set out the professional biographies of those who play a significant part in your organization’s editorial output.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
More details of the work, methodology and the team involved can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The biographies of the fact checking team is available on the website.
done_all 4.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 4.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you encourage users to communicate with your editorial team.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
You can see the details here: https://www.thequint.com/contact-us
We also share our contact points (email and Whatsapp tip-line) on social media frequently.
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
Contact details are clearly provided on the website.
done_all 4.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Section 5: A commitment to Standards and Transparency of Methodology
To be compliant on methodology, applicants must meet these six criteria
- 5.1 The applicant publishes on its website a statement about the methodology it uses to select, research, write and publish its fact checks.
- 5.2 The applicant selects claims to check based primarily on the reach and importance of the claims, and where possible explains the reason for choosing the claim to check.
- 5.3 The applicant sets out in its fact checks relevant evidence that appears to support the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it.
- 5.4 The applicant in its fact checks assesses the merits of the evidence found using the same high standards applied to evidence on equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim.
- 5.5 The applicant seeks where possible to contact those who made the claim to seek supporting evidence, noting that (I) this is often not possible with online claims, (II) if the person who makes the claim fails to reply in a timely way this should not impede the fact check, (III) if a speaker adds caveats to the claim, the fact-checker should be free to continue with checking the original claim, (IV) fact-checkers may not wish to contact the person who made the claim for safety or other legitimate reasons.
- 5.6 The applicant encourages users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable.
Criteria 5.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a link to the statement on your website that explains the methodology you use to select, research, write and publish your fact checks.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The process of fact-checking ranges from ground reporting, to calling various stakeholders and authorities to verify facts, reverse searches and analysing various parts of a message for a detailed response.
We have sent our reporters on the ground many times to verify news stories and thus preventing misinformation from spreading. One of the examples was at the time of the Kathua rape case. Our reporter traveled to Kathua, J&K to verify bring out the facts. We also rely on personal interaction with concerned parties to verify messages pertaining to them. For instance: Various messages about government schemes – when the details are not available on government websites – we write/call the Ministry for clarification.
Since the messages that we receive range from text messages to videos, the way we handle it differs.
The same can be found here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The methodology is explained.
done_all 5.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 5.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
All the fact check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The policy states they assess the impact and the kind of damage it can do as part of the process. This is reflected in the fact checks published.
done_all 5.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 5.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
All the fact check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
They show the message being shared on multiple platforms. The fact checks provide explanations for the evidence¬ they use to counter the claim.
done_all 5.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 5.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
All the fact check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
They use the same standards across all fact checks they publish.
done_all 5.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 5.5
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
All the fact check reports and videos can be accessed here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
Since many of the stories are online claims the focus is on debunking it rather than finding the people who made the claim.
done_all 5.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 5.6
Proof you meet criteria
Please describe how you encourage users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable. Include links where appropriate. If you do not allow this, explain why.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
We encourage our users to send us claims that they'd like us to verify almost on all our social media platforms and even on our website. To begin with, right on top of our section page we have a communication inviting users to send us their queries. (Link here: https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof)
Next, at the end of all our videos, we urge our readers to send us their queries on our WhatsApp helpline number or on our email address. (Link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SBRIuxiays&list=PLkwj3jpG3Xo0yI1A2xpbzLi2cIz6mFagy&index=4)
We also put out creatives o our social media platforms where we ask engage with our users and encourage them to send us their queries.
(Twitter: https://twitter.com/QuintFactCheck/status/1303958813679083523)
(Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CE8rbzLKKpp/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet)
(Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QuintFactCheck/photos/a.2139782909675502/2530634113923711/)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The website does give details for readers to send in claims to check. They also explain the basis on which they select claims for fact checking.
They also use social media platforms to ask readers to send claims.
done_all 5.6 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Section 6: A commitment to an Open & Honest Corrections Policy
To be compliant on corrections policy, applicants must meet these five criteria
- 6.1 The applicant has a corrections or complaints policy that is easily visible and accessible on the organization’s website or frequently referenced in broadcasts.
- 6.2 The policy sets out clear definitions of what it does and does not cover, how major mistakes, especially those requiring revised conclusions of a fact check, are handled, and the fact that some complaints may justify no response. This policy is adhered to scrupulously.
- 6.3 Where credible evidence is provided that the applicant has made a mistake worthy of correction, the applicant makes a correction openly and transparently, seeking as far as possible to ensure that users of the original see the correction and the corrected version.
- 6.4 The applicant, if an existing signatory, should either on its corrections/complaints page or on the page where it declares itself an IFCN signatory inform users that if they believe the signatory is violating the IFCN Code, they may inform the IFCN, with a link to the IFCN site.
- 6.5 If the applicant is the fact-checking unit of a media company, it is a requirement of signatory status that the parent media company has and adheres to an open and honest corrections policy.
Criteria 6.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a link to where you publish on your website your corrections or complaints policy. If you are primarily a broadcaster, please provide evidence you frequently reference your corrections policy in broadcasts.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
To err is after all human! Own up to any error quickly and completely. Be transparent when correcting a factual error. Therefore, as a professional organization, while our endeavour is to work with utmost flawlessness and accuracy, we are also mindful of the fact that mistakes need to be corrected promptly.
You can find more on this here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The corrections policy is clearly listed on the website.
done_all 6.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 6.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the corrections policy to verify it meets critera. No additional information needed.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
As a professional media organization, while our endeavour is to work with utmost flawlessness and accuracy, we are also mindful of the fact that mistakes need to be corrected promptly.
You can find more on this here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
We also promptly respond to any complaints or correction requests received via our contact points.
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The policy clearly states the process to be taken up if there are any mistakes. They also explain the steps to be followed and the way they will go about it.
done_all 6.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 6.3
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a short statement about how the policy was adhered to over the previous year (or six months if this is the first application) including evidence of two examples of the responses provided by the applicant to a correction request over the previous year. Where no correction request has been made in the previous year, you must state this in your application, which will be publicly available in the assessment if your application is successful.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
A pregnant elephant died in Kerala in May this year after she was fed a fruit stuffed with explosives. The incident was given a communal colour on social media. When we got in touch with the forest department and the police they rubbished these claims and said that only a man named Wilson was arrested. There were reports about the arrest of two more men which they rubbished. But later at night the police confirmed that two men – Karim and Riyaz – the owner of the estate were booked.
On receiving this information, we corrected the story and also clearly mentioned that the names were not revealed by the police.
Screenshot 2020-09-1... (66 KB)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The applicant has given one example of a story that was corrected.
done_all 6.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 6.4
Proof you meet criteria
If you are an existing signatory, please provide a link to show where on your site you inform users that if they believe you are violating the IFCN Code, they may inform the IFCN of this, with a link to the complaints page on the IFCN site.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
We have updated WebQoof's About Us section to to inform readers to how to contact IFCN if we are found violating the IFCN Code: https://www.thequint.com/about-us/webqoof
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
The applicant is compliant with this requirement. They have a link leading to the IFCN complaints page.
done_all 6.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.
Criteria 6.5
Proof you meet criteria
If you are the fact-checking unit of a media company, please provide a link to the parent media company’s honest and open corrections policy and provide evidence that it adheres to this.
The Quint
07-Sep-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
You cab view The Quint's correction policy here: https://www.thequint.com/about-us
Surekha Deepak Assessor
07-Oct-2020 (4 years ago) Updated: 4 years ago
They have clearly listed the corrections policy on the web page the parent company follows the same guidelines for corrections.