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Credibility checklist

Is this investing information credible?

Before you act on a video, article or tip, work through these questions. Tick each one you can answer yes to. Several unticked boxes mean you should dig further, and any red flag is reason to stop.

Who created it, and what are their credentials?

Is the author or organisation named, with a verifiable background?
Do they hold relevant qualifications or licences you can look up with a regulator?

Primary sources and evidence

Does it link to filings, official data or original research rather than other commentary?
Can you open those sources and confirm they say what is claimed?

Publication date and currency

When was it published or last updated?
Are the figures, prices and rules still current?

Conflicts of interest and compensation

Does the creator get paid by the companies, products or platforms they discuss?
Do they own what they recommend, and is that disclosed?

Risks and counterarguments

Does it explain what could go wrong and how you could lose money?
Does it present the strongest case against its own view?

Independent corroboration

Do at least two unconnected, reliable sources reach a similar conclusion?
Have you compared it with official regulator or investor-education sites?

Red flags

Does it promise guaranteed or risk-free returns?
Does it pressure you to act now, keep a secret or send money quickly?
Does it use vague claims, testimonials or unsolicited tips instead of evidence?

0 of 15 questions ticked.