Q: Are the students who survived the Florida school shooting really “crisis actors”?
A: No. Conspiracy theories have been spreading online to undercut students advocating stricter gun control.
No ‘Crisis Actors’ in Parkland, Florida
Debunking Viral Claims
These articles debunk misinformation shared on social media. We also provide resources for readers: an article and a video on how to combat misinformation.
From late 2016 to early 2025, FactCheck.org was one of several organizations working with Meta to debunk misinformation shared on Meta’s social media platforms.
Made-up Michelle Obama Quote
Q: Did Michelle Obama say that the school shooting in Florida was President Donald Trump’s fault?
A: No. That claim is circulating on dubious websites. The former first lady hasn’t said anything like that publicly.
Florida Shooter Not Registered Dem
Q: Is the Florida school shooter a registered Democrat?
A: No. Nikolas Cruz isn’t even registered to vote.
Horner Hoax Remix
Q: Was a teen sentenced to 30 years in prison for killing a refugee who raped his sister?
A: No. That is a made-up headline on an old internet hoax story.
Philip Morris Not Selling Marijuana Cigarettes
Q: Are Philip Morris “Marlboro M” brand marijuana cigarettes now for sale in four U.S. states?
A: No. That claim comes from a 2014 satirical story. It has recently resurfaced without the satire label.
4 Million Democratic Votes Weren’t Discounted
Q: Were 4 million Democratic votes found to be fraudulent?
A: No. The company that supposedly made the voting machines in question doesn’t appear to exist.
No Black Lives Matter Embezzlement Scandal
Q: Was a Black Lives Matter activist sued after stealing millions of dollars in donations?
A: No. That scandal was made up by a website that calls itself satirical.
Adam Schiff and George Soros Not In-Laws
Q: Is Rep. Adam Schiff’s sister married to the son of George Soros?
A: No. The congressman doesn’t even have a sister.
Pluto Not Reclassified as a Planet
Q: Has the International Astronomical Union reclassified Pluto as a “major planet”?
A: No. That claim was originally published years ago as an April Fool’s joke.
No Logan Act Charges Against John Kerry
Q: Is John Kerry facing felony charges under the Logan Act?
A: No. The former secretary of state has not been charged.