Fake news on social media has become a pervasive issue, spreading misinformation at an alarming rate. Amplified by the rapid sharing and viral nature of these platforms, false stories, and misleading content can easily reach a vast audience. The lack of fact-checking mechanisms and the tendency of users to trust information within their social circles contribute to the problem. 

3 things you need to know

• False news regarding Pakistan cricketer Babar Azam is circulating on social media
• Babar recently stepped down as Pakistan captain after a poor ODI World Cup in India
• He is currently playing a five-match T20I series in New Zealand

Also Read: 'Ishan hasn't contacted or told us anything': Major update on India star's unusual disappearance

Cricket Victoria CEO schools Pakistan journo for spreading fake news

After a flop Australia tour, Babar Azam and his Pakistan team flew to New Zealand to take part in a bilateral five-match T20I series, the first game of which was played on Friday. Although Babar Azam scored a half-century, his team lost the match by 46 runs to concede a 1-0 lead in the contest.

Meanwhile, fake news regarding Babar Azam has been circulating on social media for the past couple of days. Some journalists from Pakistan were falsely claiming that Cricket Victoria had approached Babar Azam and offered him to play in the Big Bash League (BBL) and Sheffield Shield. 

However, Cricket Victoria CEO Nick Cummins came out and cleared the air, confirming that Babar Azam hasn't been offered any contract from the state body and that the news being circulated on social media is fake. Pakistan journalist Arfa Feroz Zake is one of the few journos from Pakistan who fell for the fake news.