Fact-Checking Policy

Discover how Qlork's fact-checking policy works — the exact steps we use to verify every story and every claim before publication.

Misinformation spreads fast. This page explains how Qlork's fact-checking policy works — and how we verify every story, statistic, and source before it reaches our readers. Accuracy is not optional at Qlork; it is the foundation of every story we publish.

Our Verification Process

Step 01

Source Identification

Reporters identify and document all primary sources — official records, data sets, and direct interviews — before writing begins.

Step 02

Independent Verification

A second journalist or editor verifies key claims against sources not supplied by the original reporter.

Step 03

Subject Right of Reply

Individuals or organisations named in a story are contacted for comment before publication wherever possible.

Step 04

Senior Editorial Sign-Off

A senior editor reviews all verified material and approves the final published version.

1. Why Fact-Checking Matters

In an era of rapid information and widespread misinformation, a rigorous fact-checking policy is one of the most important things a news organisation can maintain. At Qlork, every claim, statistic, name, date, and quote in our reporting is checked before it reaches our readers. Fact-checking is not an optional step — it is built into the foundation of how every Qlork story is produced and how we verify every article before publication.

2. What We Fact-Check

  • All statistical claims, figures, and data cited in articles
  • Direct quotes attributed to named or unnamed individuals
  • Claims made by public figures, organisations, or official sources
  • Historical context and background presented as established fact
  • Headlines and sub-headings to ensure they accurately represent the body of the story
  • Image captions and metadata for accuracy and fair representation

3. Types of Sources We Accept

Not all sources carry equal weight. Qlork evaluates sources based on their reliability, authority, and independence. Here is how we verify each story's sources before publication.

Primary Sources (Preferred)

  • Official government documents, reports, and legislation
  • Peer-reviewed academic and scientific research
  • On-the-record interviews with direct witnesses or subjects
  • Verified data from established statistical bodies

Secondary Sources (Used with Caution)

  • Reputable news organisations with established editorial standards
  • Statements from press offices, subject to independent verification
  • Expert analysis cited alongside primary evidence

Sources We Do Not Use

  • Unverified social media posts as standalone evidence
  • Anonymous blogs or websites without editorial oversight
  • AI-generated content presented as factual source material
  • Propaganda materials from parties with a vested interest in the outcome

4. Handling Breaking News

Breaking news presents unique challenges for verification. When covering a rapidly developing story, Qlork clearly labels preliminary reports and updates them as facts are confirmed. We do not publish unverified casualty figures, identities, or causes. If a claim cannot be independently verified, we say so explicitly rather than presenting speculation as fact. Speed is never prioritised over accuracy — this is how we verify every breaking story responsibly.

5. Viral Claims and Misinformation

When a claim is circulating widely online and our journalists assess it as potentially misleading or false, Qlork investigates it as a standalone fact-check story. These pieces apply our full verification policy — consulting primary sources, reaching out to relevant experts, and publishing our methodology alongside the verdict. We clearly label all such pieces as fact-check articles.

6. Transparency in Our Process

Where relevant, Qlork includes links to primary source documents, data, and reports so readers can review the evidence themselves. We believe in showing how we verify every story — our work is open to scrutiny. If you believe a fact cited in our reporting is incorrect, we encourage you to contact us with supporting evidence at [email protected].

Dispute a Fact with Qlork

  • If you believe information in one of our stories is factually incorrect, email Qlork's fact-checking team at [email protected]
  • Include the article URL, the specific claim you dispute, and any primary source evidence supporting your position
  • Qlork's editorial team reviews all fact-check submissions and responds within one business day