Heath Ledger ‘Happy’ Quote
More than a decade after the death of actor Heath Ledger, a quote about being “happy” was widely attributed to him on social media.
Audible vs. Libby App
A popular August 2023 Facebook post claimed that the Libby app could replace Audible purchases.
Secret Service Agents Discussed ‘Liaison’ with Oath Keepers’ Extremist Leader
Uncovered messages debunk the agency’s claim that it did not know whether agents had spoken to Stewart Rhodes.
Ellen Ochoa Elementary Bomb Threats
Misleadingly edited social media content led to two separate bomb threats aimed at an Oklahoma school in August 2023 — as public institutions are increasingly targeted by far right disinformation purveyors.
Were Period Products ‘Tested With Blood’ for Absorbency Claims?
A highly popular claim was difficult to check without access to the paywalled study it was quoting.
Canadian PM Trudeau Slams Meta for Shuttering News Access During ‘Apocalyptic’ Wildfires
“In a larger picture that’s bad for democracy,” the prime minister said.
‘This is the Pinned Tweet of the Murderer Who Killed Lauri Ann Carlton … For Having a Pride Flag on Her Business’
Lauri Ann Carleton was shot and killed for displaying a Pride flag at her California store in August 2023.
Ted Cruz ‘Highway Shark’ Tweet
The Texas Republican shared a long-circulating “highway shark” image during an atypical tropical storm in the Southwestern United States in August 2023.
Florida News Stations Double Down on Law Enforcement ‘Fentanyl Exposure’ Claims
One expert said the “dramatic” video showed the literal opposite of an overdose.
Massachusetts Millionaires’ Tax and Free School Lunches
A post about Massachusetts, a “millionaire tax,” and school lunches was popular on Reddit’s r/politics in August 2023.