A key challenge we face in the digital information age, is the fact that anyone can put anything on the internet. DMRF Canada has compiled some resources to help the dystonia community discern between information that is available from trusted sources, vs. information promoted by unverified sources. Read on to help you make the most of what you find online.
Evaluating Information Online
DMRF Canada website remains a trusted source. Our dystonia-related information is shared and/or vetted by our sister organization DMRF (USA). The information presented at both dystoniacanada.org and www.dystonia-foundation.org is thoroughly fact-checked by experts prior to publishing.
It’s important to think critically about what you read, what the source is, and why the information is being presented online. Asking some simple questions can often help you determine if the information you’ve obtained is evidence-based.
Click here for a useful tip sheet, developed by the Toronto Public Library. This article, entitled; “Spot Fake News” provides a great checklist for reviewing the information you find online – and how to ensure you are flagging misinformation when you find it.
Check out this useful infographic on How to Spot Fake News.
(Source: IFLA)
You are Responsible for Your Own Health – and Every Case is Different
DMRF Canada recommends that, in addition to carefully reviewing the information that you find online, that you also speak with your Neurologist / Movement Disorder Specialist regarding your dystonia diagnosis, and treatment plan.
Staying Safe Online – Protect Yourself:
In addition to evaluating the dystonia-related information you find online, its also important to remember that you are mindful about protecting your online privacy. Read on for some good tips from the Government of Canada:
Privacy and Anti-Spam Regulations in Canada:
Institutions and registered charitable organizations, like DMRF Canada, must comply with privacy, anti-spam, and other regulations before publishing information. Here are some additional tips:
- Protecting your privacy online, developed by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC)
- Learn more about Canada’s anti-spam legislation here
Please note: DMRF Canada takes no responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, and correctness of any information provided by third parties to the Dystonia Canada web site nor for the accuracy, reliability, and correctness of links or references to information sources (including Internet Sites) outside of the Dystonia Canada web site. Links to other Internet Sites are for information only. Care has been taken in providing these links as suitable reference resources. However, due to the changing nature of the Internet content, it is the responsibility of the users to make their own investigations, decisions, inquiries about the information retrieved from other Internet Sites. Providing these links does not imply any endorsement, non-endorsement, support or commercial gain by DMRF Canada. Please consult a professional before taking any further action.
The material and information shared is for general information purposes only. You should not rely on the information contained here for making business, legal, or any other decisions. Please report any complaints or inaccuracies to info@dystoniacanada.org.