Kerala floods: Here's how Twitter can save you from fake news

If you are in Kerala and are affected by the devastating floods, using Twitter may help you steer clear of fake news.

When communication services are limited and internet connectivity is poor, using the data-friendly "Twitter Lite" can help you connect easily with government agencies, relief organisations, media and volunteers.

One just needs to use hashtags such as #KeralaFloods, #KeralaFloods2018 to find information regarding relief operations, such as locations of relief centres.

Other hashtags such as #OpMadad can help with aid or rescue and #KeralaFloodRelief for raising funds for Kerala flood survivors.

To keep abreast with latest information, you can track Twitter "Moments" which is available in over 40 languages and can also be accessed offline.

"Moments" are curated stories showcasing the most relevant tweets for what's happening on the micro-blogging site.

One can also create a chronological account of the situation and curate relevant tweets, which can serve as a point of reference later on.

Further, tracking government agencies like the National Disaster Response Force (@NDRFHQ) Indian Navy (@indiannavy), Press Information Bureau (@PIBIndia), the Chief Minister of Kerala (@CMOKerala), and the Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) can help get the latest news from trusted sources, as and when it happens.

Avoid sharing information that you are not able to verify and after receiving the help you need, make sure you update your tweet to save time and avoid duplication of effort.

The northern and central parts of the state have been battered by heavy rains since August 8, causing one of the worst floods in its history and have until now claimed 29 lives and left 54,000 homeless.

--IANS

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