About Mimikama®

Mimikama ® -Association for raising awareness about Internet abuse. Since 2011, dedicated to protecting internet users.

Mimikama® is an internet abuse awareness association that has been promoting the protection of internet users since 2011. The association fights internet fraud and false reports, promotes media literacy and analyzes disinformation on social media.

That's what we stand for

We are looking for information:

At mimikama.org, we are committed to thoroughly searching for important news and information. We want to find out what is happening in our society and what problems there are. We do this by using a variety of methods to answer challenging questions and uncover the truth.

Searching together:

In addition to our own search for important information and news, we also receive tips from users online about possible false information. This collaboration allows us to cover a broader range of topics and identify and combat fake news more effectively.

Research together:

In order to take the diverse perspectives and opinions of our readers seriously and include them, we have created own community An online forum in which not only the Mimikama editorial team, but also our readers, listeners and viewers can research together and actively shape our content.

Everyone should know:

We firmly believe that everyone should have the right to be well informed. That's why we ensure that our news is freely accessible to everyone. No matter whether young or old, poor or rich - we want to give everyone the opportunity to find out about important topics without having to pay for it.

We are independent:

We are independent. This means we don't let anyone tell us what to report on. We decide for ourselves which topics we investigate and which stories we tell. Our work is not influenced by donors or political interests. Instead, we follow our own beliefs and values.

We clarify:

There is often incorrect information on the internet and social media. These can lead to confusion and uncertainty. That's why it's important that we bring the truth to light and expose false stories. Our fact-checking editorial team checks information for accuracy and ensures that our readers receive reliable information.

We work together:

We believe we can achieve more when we work together. That's why we work with other organizations, media and people to achieve our goals. Through this collaboration, we can reach more people and spread our message more widely. The majority of the work is carried out by a team of volunteers. The people on this team invest a lot of energy, care and time in their work. We are also in direct contact and exchange with Facebook, as well as with police stations, the BKA and LKA. We also cooperate with well-known media.

We help you learn:

We want everyone to have the ability to distinguish good information from bad information. That's why we offer " Mimikama media education " training courses, workshops and online lectures in which people can learn how to stay well informed and think critically. We want to help our society become more enlightened and people are able to make informed decisions.

We support democracy:

Our work strengthens our democracy. We uncover grievances and bring important topics up for discussion. In this way, we give people the opportunity to actively participate in shaping their society. We ensure that our society is fair and open and that everyone can express their opinions and be heard.

Methodology for verifying claims

1. Origin of the claim and source assessment:

  • Determine the origin of the claim and conduct a source assessment.
  • Examining the credibility and reliability of sources.

2. Analysis of Evidence:

  • Reviewing the evidence provided and its relevance to the claim.
  • Identifying logical inconsistencies or unfounded assumptions.

3. Look for alternatives:

  • Identifying alternative explanations for the evidence presented.

4. Assessment of confidential information:

  • Assessing the credibility of sources claiming to have inside information.

5. Source quality check:

  • Favoring evidence from trustworthy, official, or reputable scientific sources.

6. Contacting people involved:

  • Try to contact relevant people for comments if possible.

7. Inclusion of expert opinions:

  • Obtaining expert opinions or local sources to confirm or refute the claim.

8. Technical Analysis:

  • Conduct technical analysis to identify manipulation or editing.

9. Consistency check:

  • Reviewing the claim or evidence for consistency with existing records.

10. Eliminate Confusion:

  • Clarification of any misunderstanding or confusion in the claim.

11. Goal:

  • The aim is to provide readers with a reliable assessment of the claim.
  • Publish articles as soon as sufficient information has been collected, with the opportunity to update as new findings arise.

12. Correction Policy:

  • Updating articles as necessary in accordance with correction policy.

13. Impossible Claims:

  • Mention when there is no evidence for or against a claim due to lack of relevant information.

This methodology is designed to ensure that claims and stories are objectively and thoroughly verified to provide readers with accurate and reliable information.

Methodology for checking phishing emails, dubious messages, chain letters, fake competitions, scammers, etc.

1. Identifying Suspicious Content:

  • Detection of suspicious emails, messages, chain letters or competitions.

2. Verification of sender and source information:

  • Checking the sender information and URLs in emails or messages for irregularities or forgeries.

3. Message content analysis:

  • Analyzing the content for unusual language, spelling errors or suspicious requests (e.g. for personal data, passwords, financial information).

4. Examination of links and attachments:

  • Carefully examine links and attachments for potential threats such as phishing websites or malware.

5. Checking the competition conditions:

  • Checking the conditions of participation and the authenticity of competitions, especially from unknown or dubious sources.

6. Look for Fraud Indicators:

  • Identify indicators of fraud such as unexpected fees, unrealistic promises or requests for upfront payments.

7. Consultation with security experts:

  • Seek advice from security experts or online security resources if you are unsure or have suspicious content.

8. User education:

  • Providing users with information and advice on how to identify and avoid fraud and phishing attempts.

9. Reporting to relevant authorities:

  • Report fraudulent activity or phishing attempts to appropriate authorities or online platforms.

10. Provision of safety instructions:

  • Publish security tips and recommendations to improve online security and protect against fraud and phishing.

11. Goal:

  • The aim is to protect users from fraudulent activities and inform them about potential dangers.

12. Raising Security Awareness:

  • Raise awareness of online security risks and promote safe online practices through regular educational campaigns.

13. Security Measures Update:

  • Update security measures and policies as necessary to ensure protection against new fraud methods.

This methodology aims to protect users from fraudulent activities and online threats by identifying, analyzing and reporting suspicious content.

Our other priorities for online security

In addition to the topics mentioned above, Mimikama.org covers a variety of other areas to educate the public about online security and help them deal with digital threats:

Cyber ​​Security Tips : We regularly offer practical tips and advice to improve cyber security. This includes recommendations for secure password use, recognizing and avoiding phishing attacks, and protecting online privacy from data leaks and identity theft.

Data protection issues : We investigate data breaches, data leaks and privacy concerns, particularly related to social media, apps and online services. Our goal is to help users better protect their personal information and online privacy.

Deepfakes and manipulated media : We analyze deepfake technologies, manipulated media and fake content to educate the public about the risks of media manipulation. We show how easy it is to manipulate images, videos and audio files and how you can recognize fake content.

Legal aspects of online threats : We discuss legal and regulatory aspects related to online threats, including laws to combat cybercrime and misinformation. We provide information about the legal steps victims of online fraud and abuse can take.

Educational Resources for Schools and Teachers : We provide educational resources, curriculum, and activities to promote students' digital media literacy and critical thinking skills. Our goal is to give teachers and schools tools to teach students about online safety and media literature.

Technological developments and security risks : We report on new technologies, security risks and trends in online security to keep the public informed about potential threats. We explain complex security concepts in an understandable way and offer insights into current developments in the field of cybersecurity.

Security tools and resources : We highlight security tools, apps, and resources to help users protect themselves from online threats. From antivirus programs to password managers, we offer recommendations for tools that can improve security and privacy online.

These topics complement our commitment to educate the public about online threats and equip them with the resources they need to protect themselves from digital risks.

About Mimikama

The name “Mimikama®” is a made-up word that was created from a Google Translate entry of “like”. Since our work is very closely linked to social life in social networks, our association name represents a bridge to them. The word “Mimikama®” itself has no meaning in everyday language.

Since our founding in 2011, we have set ourselves the goal of actively combating internet abuse, fraud and false reports. We particularly focus on social media such as Facebook, We answer questions, check information and rumors and clarify their truth – directly with the users.

We want to make it clear that we do not receive any financial support from major tech companies like Facebook or Google. We also consciously do not accept government funding or advertising money from the state in order to maintain our independence.

It is our job

We debunk false reports, label disinformation, point out manipulation and offer people a reliable source of information on social media. Given the rapid pace at which information spreads on social media and the increasingly emotional nature of political discussions, our work is more important than ever.

We preventively protect people on social media, regardless of their age. In German-speaking countries we uncover hoaxes, fake news and hoaxes. Our work is particularly relevant in times of crisis, such as the refugee crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic or the war in Ukraine.

We take over the research and review of incoming user reports. Based on these findings, we publish analysis and research reports on our website www.mimikama.org and distribute them via our social media channels. This is how we ensure that they arrive where they are needed. We also offer personal help with user inquiries and are in direct contact and exchange with various organizations and authorities.

A large part of our work is carried out by a dedicated team of volunteers. They invest a lot of time and effort to achieve our goals. We also work with the media to combat disinformation across borders.

We enjoy a high reputation and are considered an important control authority, not only for media and journalists, but also for government authorities and educational institutions. Our expertise is reflected in regular TV appearances and mentions in the media. We are also often in demand as speakers at various events at home and abroad.

We make the Internet safer and strengthen democracy in the digital space. To this end, we offer a platform for factual discussions and provide internet users with tools so that they can make informed decisions.

We are convinced that virtual reality is having an increasing influence on the real world. It is therefore particularly important to us to be a reliable online contact that supports and encourages people to act democratically in the interests of society.

We are a registered association and, since our founding, have financed ourselves exclusively through advertising revenue and donations from Internet users as well as through the sale of products in our webshop . Our association statutes form the legal basis for our work and ensure transparency and legal compliance.

Form of company: Mimikama is an association (Section 1 of the Association Act 2002, Federal Law Gazette I No. 66/2002.)

Financing: Mimikama has always fulfilled its mission as an association without subsidies from ministries or foundations. Since 2011, funding has come exclusively through the marketing of advertising space and small donations from Internet users. Exception: In 2017, we carried out educational work with digital learning content . This took the form of video clips on the topic of media literacy! In the style of YouTube content and in the form of a multi-part picture series, two differently designed video series including learning materials were made available depending on the age group in order to ensure easier and more target group-appropriate access using audiovisual means. We also offer events such as workshops and panel discussions and operate a webshop with merchandising products through a partner. Our association statutes form the legal basis for our association work. The currently valid version of the Mimikama association statutes was approved at the ordinary general meeting and can be viewed here: Association statutes

We are proud that our work has already been recognized Golden Blogger We also received the Human Rights Prize from the Tonhalle Düsseldorf in recognition of our commitment. Our activities in the area of ​​education about Internet fakes have also earned us voluntary membership in the Conspiracy Theories Committee of the Federal Office for Sect Issues, which underlines the social relevance of our work . In addition to our awards, we have already published two books. One of them is entitled ' The Fake Hunters - How rumors arise on the Internet and how you can protect yourself '. The other book, ' Attack on Democracy ', addresses the challenges to our democracy posed by disinformation.

We on the internet

Reference: Mimikama ® / Wikipedia: Link: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mimikama

In the public interest and against common disinformation, we publish current and independent fact checks.
Our fact checks use data, analysis and editorial judgment to identify and prioritize high-risk claims. Our experienced editors and fact checkers assess the prevalence of individual claims and the impact of their spread.

Mimikama examines claims that meet the following criteria:

  • It's a claim that's been circulating on the web.
  • It can be judged as right or true, false or misleading.
  • It can be judged according to generally accessible and generally accepted standards of rationality. This means that the claim or statement contains concrete and verifiable facts and is not based solely on opinion, conjecture or speculative assumptions. It must be based on logic and evidence that is generally accepted as valid and reliable.
  • Mimikama can only check statements or sentences that can be interpreted as assertions. An assertion is any sentence that is intended to lead someone to believe something to be true.

In some situations, a claim, although valid in itself, may not be supported by evidence available to us or available in the future. Typically, this concerns statements that rely solely on matters of faith, historical statements that cannot be substantiated due to a lack of evidence, or statements that are fundamentally moral or religious in nature

There are allegations that we will not deal with for reasons of responsibility. This may be the case, for example, if we do not have the necessary expertise or if we are unable to adequately contextualize a statement, which would render any possible judgment of ours useless. In addition, we do not engage with trolls or harmful conspiracy theories unless there is a clearly understandable journalistic reason to publish a refutation.

Initially, we identify the origin of a statement and conduct a complete contextual analysis. To confirm or refute the statement, we refer to as many primary sources as possible.

Once we have collected sufficient evidence, we evaluate the reliability of the statement and prepare a report on our findings. We also document our research path. This report is called a fact check. After going through several phases of testing, we share our results.

Mimikama fact checkers are required to use at least two sources for their fact check. Possible sources may include, but are not limited to, the following

  • Direct statements from experts, witnesses, affected persons or authorities
  • Scientific publications and research documents
  • Reports from reputable, credible news agencies
  • Data collected through open source intelligence analysis (OSINT), including methods such as key image analysis, reverse image search, and geolocation.

Once the fact checkers have determined a statement, it must be confirmed by at least one person at Mimikama. After the fact check draft has been prepared, the article/report is checked for editorial coherence (evidence, structure, argumentation, quotes from experts, eyewitnesses, affected persons or authorities).

After the initial check, it is the responsibility of Mimikama editors to ensure the accuracy and trustworthiness of the text and sources. Any outstanding questions regarding the rating, sources, or other editorial decisions will be communicated to the fact-checker and the appropriate members of the fact-checking team prior to publication of the fact-check.

It makes sense to rely on accessible and credible sources of information rather than unreliable ones, as reliable sources tend to provide more accurate and comprehensive information. It is less advantageous to accept statements that are only weakly supported by existing evidence or have the potential to be misleading or manipulative because they promote false beliefs rather than correct ones.

We use five different assessment categories for our fact checks. These are intended to enable a quick summary of our results and an assessment of the reliability of the statement made:

  • TRUE/TRUE – The statement made is fully supported by the existing evidence and contributes to the understanding of the matter in dispute.
  • PARTIALLY TRUE/PARTIALLY TRUE - The statement may be misleading in some unimportant points, but overall is conducive to understanding the controversial issue.
  • MISLEADING/CONFUSING - This statement is largely inadequate to understand the issue at issue, although parts of the statement may be confirmed by existing evidence.
  • FALSE/INCORRECT – This statement is completely unjustified by the available evidence.
  • UNVERIFICIAL/UNASSESSABLE – This claim cannot be assessed based on the evidence available.

There are many different types of evidence, each of which supports different types of statements: empirical statements are based on scientific research, economic forecasts rely on expert panels for verification, and political statements are confirmed using survey data or generally accepted political principles. In addition, there are standards that can meet different types of evidence, allowing for a qualitative comparison.

In our hierarchy of information sources, we prefer those that are ranked higher. Where applicable, we also prefer primary sources (first-hand information) to secondary sources (information about primary sources). If we have reason to believe that a source we cite is unreliable or that there is a plausible conflict of interest in its reporting, we will always make this clear.

As a guideline for evaluating the reliability of a source, we use the following principle: “What would be their gain or loss if they deceive us?” A source that loses more credibility if it makes a mistake (such as a renowned scientist), tends to be more reliable than a source that has less to lose (for example, an anonymous post on social media). In order to make a judgment about a statement, we require at least two sources of the highest quality available.

Anyone can submit a request to have a claim or possible fake verified. We accept reports via the website , by email or via our social media channels FACEBOOK , TWITTER , INSTAGRAM . You can also send us tips, allegations or other relevant information through these channels.

Any request for review should be provided with as much detail as possible. This includes information about where you saw the statement, the exact wording of the statement, screenshots, links, any known sources of the statement, and an explanation of why you believe the statement requires verification. Unfortunately, we are unable to process reports submitted anonymously.

Since its founding, Mimikama has remained true to its mission as an association without any funding from ministries or foundations. Since 2011 we have financed ourselves exclusively through the marketing of advertising space and donations from internet users . An exception was the year 2017, in which we carried out valuable educational work in the form of digital learning content . By creating video clips on media literacy, designed in the style of popular YouTube content and illustrated by multi-part image series, we have provided two differently designed video series including learning materials depending on the age group in order to enable easier and age-appropriate access using audiovisual means.

In addition to these activities, we offer various events under the banner “ Mimikama media education webshop through a partner where merchandising products are available. Our association statutes form the legal basis for our association activities.

We attach great importance to strict financial and editorial independence from our supporters. Our supporters have no influence on the selection of topics we select for review.

You can support us by finding out about our work, subscribing to our newsletter or making donation If you are a company, institution or individual interested in supporting our work, please contact us. We appreciate your support.

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