Information credibility

Information credibility

A reliable source can pass along a rumor. An unproven source can witness a fact. So we rate every item of information on its own, separately from the source that carried it.

What it is

Grading the story on its own merits

Information credibility answers the second question: how well does this specific report hold up. We rate each item on a six-level scale from 1 to 6, judged on corroboration, internal logic, and consistency with what else is known.

The scale

Six levels, 1 to 6

1 · Confirmed
Corroborated by other independent, trusted sources, logical in itself, and consistent with what else is known.
2 · Probably true
Not yet confirmed, but logical and consistent with other information.
3 · Possibly true
Not confirmed, reasonably logical, and agreeing with some other information.
4 · Doubtful
Not confirmed, possible but not logical, with no other information on the subject.
5 · Improbable
Not confirmed, not logical, and contradicted by other information.
6 · Cannot be judged
Validity cannot yet be determined either way.
Why it matters

What the finding is standing on

A finding marked B2 says exactly what it rests on: a usually reliable source, reporting information that is probably true.

The rating travels with the finding, so a reader never has to guess how much weight it can bear.

  • A six-level scale, 1 to 6
  • Rated on the item, not the source
  • Corroboration sought before a 1
  • Visible on every finding we deliver
Method and technology

Explore the standards and technology behind every finding.

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Due diligence welcome

Vetted counterparties can review our standards, governance, and methodology in depth under appropriate confidentiality.