Breaking news is an event that occurs or has occurred, and catches the attention of media and viewers because of its timeliness and importance. In contrast to regular news reporting, which may allow time for thorough fact-checking and a delay in release of information, breaking news events require immediate coverage to inform the public of significant developments that could have immediate impact. This urgency often results in continuous updates as new details are gathered and verified, and can lead to erroneous or unconfirmed information being spread quickly. Explore the role that social media plays in breaking news, and evaluate ethical considerations for journalists when reporting this type of news.
In the past, before 24-hour television news networks were common, programs were interrupted when a breaking story required it. When such an event occurs, a national network will usually notify its affiliate stations to “stand by,” while the main newscast is paused and a countdown begins. Once the break is over, the program resumes and a news anchor introduces the latest developments in the story at hand.
As a result of the intense pressure to deliver breaking news as quickly as possible, many media outlets are prone to making mistakes in their rush to be first to publish. This is especially true when covering a breaking story with a large number of witnesses, such as a shooting or a natural disaster. It is important for reporters to avoid speculating about a situation if they don’t have first-hand knowledge, and to verify eyewitness accounts with authorities.