Renoir Salgado | www.trueskool.com | 9/17/13

Fake news website NationalReport.net repeatedly fools Facebook users into thinking that they were reading actual news stories.  The catchy sensational headlines draws unsuspecting Facebook users, compelling them to share and comment on the outrageous news stories.  While the headlines are not as humorous as popular satire publication "The Onion" nor very satirical, most people are falling for the fake news.  Most recently, it reported "George Zimmerman Files Civil Suit Against Trayvon Martin’s Parents" not even 48 hours after the Zimmerman verdict. The article went viral, inflaming an already heated atmosphere surrounding the high profile case. 

More of their headlines read:

• BREAKING: Alleged Navy Yard Shooter, Aaron Alexis, Registered Democrat and Obama Supporter?
• Coos County NH Implements Forcible Roadside Blood Draws At DUI Checkpoints
• Guantanamo Bay Empty – Remaining Guantanamo Bay Prisoners Pardoned By President Obama
• Muslim Million Man March to Washington DC Huge Success for Those Who Showed Up
• Burning Man 2013 – Communism is Alive and Well in USA

One need not look further than the banner to discern that it's fake news, which reads "National Report is America's # 1 Independent News Source," next to a picture of Sarah Palin and Ted Cruz, Republican Senator from Texas.

In addition, their disclaimer reads:

"The National Report is an online portal for "citizen journalists". The views expressed by writers on this site are theirs alone and are not reflective of the fine journalistic and editorial integrity of National Report. Advice given is NOT to be construed as professional. If you are in need of professional help, please consult a professional. National Report is not intended for children under the age of 18.

While many Americans have gained a general distrust for the corporate mainstream media, some are looking to alternative sources of media for their information.  Websites like NationalReport.net blurs the distinction between truth and sham reporting and only serves to discredit the validity of information found on the internet.  The general lesson to be learned here is: 

1. Do your research
2. Don't trust NationalReport.net
3. Spread the word about this fake news website before other unsuspecting friends share it.