It is not uncommon to be suspicious about much of what is posted on the internet.

That’s not new, of course. It’s as old as the internet itself.

However, when the internet was new, most people gave scant thought to the misinformation and evils that could embrace it and be hidden within it. It was something new, something fun, something exciting, something intriguing — and people increasingly were captivated by it and its myriad possibilities.

Over the years, however, attitudes and perceptions changed, the one big change being that people have, as noted in this editorial’s first paragraph, become increasingly suspicious of it -although not everyone. There are millions of people still being duped every day, despite urgings from many sources about being generally cautious, as well as protective of one’s own personal information.

More and more people are indeed stepping up their caution, although still not enough people — even here. Many local individuals still continue to allow themselves to be misled, even people who otherwise are successful and watchful of their personal interests, as well as the well-being of their communities.

There’s nothing wrong with questioning the motives of those who tout themselves as well-informed about an issue but who really are something less. There’s nothing wrong with getting in touch with officials close to issues to try to ascertain what’s really correct, what isn’t and what potential decisions might be forthcoming but still are in limbo.

It’s better to find out and know the actual truth then to believe misinformation coming from who knows where. Getting the truth out there is part of the mission of journalism in general, and newspapers in particular.

If there are topics you would like The Inter-Mountain to investigate, or even “iffy” information you would like us look into, please call us at 304-636-2121, or send email to bjohnson@theintermountain.com.