Established news media perpetuate the myth that internet news is unreliable, according to freelance technology journalist Paul Andrews, but the Dan Rather episode at CBS proved that all media platforms are fallible.

Writing in the Seattle Times, Mr Andrews argues that the internet and bloggers represent a new 'truth police' that can be more reliable than traditional media. Facts and claims can easily be cross referenced online, and the network of bloggers around the world quickly flag up wrong information.

"All of this represents a huge shift in the way information works in American culture," said Mr Andrews.

"Competitive pressures to get a scoop before it hits the internet have pushed reporters to take shortcuts and, in some instances, deliberately fabricate.

"Any diligent internet user can generally find out the real truth simply by burrowing further into the web itself."

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Seattle Times

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