> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://polymarketguide.gitbook.io/polymarketguide/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://polymarketguide.gitbook.io/polymarketguide/rules/consensus/source-credibility/non-credible-sources.md).
# Non-Credible Sources
Some sources may be less credible because they rely on **sensational headlines**, **unverified claims**, or **strong bias** instead of factual reporting. These can include **tabloids**, **clickbait sites**, **blogs**, and **aggregator sources**.
Less credible sources generally fall into several categories.
**Note:** These categories are general warning signs, not automatic disqualifiers. A source should still be evaluated based on the specific reporting, evidence, and context.
### Sensationalist Media
Sensationalist outlets use dramatic headlines or emotional language to attract attention rather than inform. These articles may exaggerate facts, focus on outrage, or present rumors as news. They frequently use clickbait headlines to get more views or shares.
*Examples*: The New York Post, The Daily Beast, National Enquirer
### Aggregator and Alternative Media
Aggregator sources mainly repost information from elsewhere instead of producing original reporting. They may prioritize speed and share information before it has been independently verified.
Alternative media operate outside traditional news organizations and vary widely in their editorial standards, sourcing, and reliability.
*Examples*: Breaking911, Watcher Guru, Walter Bloomberg
### Nontraditional Sources
Nontraditional sources include personal blogs, social media accounts, YouTube channels, and podcasts. Their credibility varies widely depending on the author, sourcing, and evidence provided.
These sources may mix opinion with fact or lack the editorial review and fact-checking found in professional news organizations.
*Examples*: Social media, YouTube channels, podcasts
### Finding the Primary Source
When a **less credible outlet** references a credible one, always use the **primary source** instead of the repost.
*Example*: Walter Bloomberg posts a headline referencing AP News.
Verify the information by checking the [original AP News article](https://apnews.com/article/florida-detention-alligator-alcatraz-08aac166ad5fa5dfbd33a00f6be2b979).
### Quantity Does Not Equal Credibility
A large number of **less credible sources** does not outweigh a single **credible report**. If only non-credible outlets repeat a claim without confirmation from stronger sources, the claim should not be treated as established.
*Example*: The Daily Beast, The Daily Mail, and Mashable published articles claiming Zelenskyy wore a suit.
However, Reuters reported he wore a suit jacket.
### Beyond the Source
Source credibility matters most when the market depends on reporting to establish what happened. In some markets, the relevant evidence is the **underlying event itself** rather than how a source describes it.
*Example*: In *Will Trump publicly insult someone on...?*, whether a statement qualifies as an insult depends on the statement itself and the market rules. A non-credible outlet calling something an "insult" does not make it qualify, while a direct video, transcript, or public post can provide stronger evidence of what was actually said.
When presenting evidence, use the **most credible and direct source available**.
