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Beforeitsnews: An In-Depth Look at the Citizen-Journalism Platform

Founded in the late 2000s, Before Its News often stylized as Beforeitsnews branded itself as a "people-powered news" platform. Its mission: let anyone publish stories without editorial filters or mainstream media constraints. But is this freedom of expression a strength or merely a vulnerability?

Introduction

Founded in the late 2000s, Before its news branded itself as a "people-powered news" platform. Its mission: let anyone publish stories without editorial filters or mainstream media constraints. But is this freedom of expression a strength or merely a vulnerability?

Origins and Ownership

The platform emerged around 2008–2009, launched by Chris Kitze. Kitze later joined the board of The Epoch Times, and his site frequently mirrored that outlet’s political leanings. Before its news openly criticizes mainstream media and encourages unfiltered user submissions.

Open Publishing Model & Content Diversity

As a citizen journalism site with minimal oversight, Before its news offers broad content categories ranging from politics and tech to health, spirituality, and conspiracy. Popular sections include:

  • Featured and Most Recent posts
  • Health and Economy
  • “Beyond Science” for fringe topics
  • “Power of Belief” for spiritual narratives
  • Live updates and video uploads

Advantages of the Platform

  • Accessibility: Anyone can register and publish, giving voice to non-traditional perspectives.
  • Broad Scope: Encompasses a wide array of topics, including those sidelined by mainstream outlets.
  • Community Engagement: Users rate, comment, and share content, fostering a sense of participation.

Concerns Around Credibility

Misinformation & Lack of Fact-Checking

Without editorial scrutiny, Before its news has become infamous for hosting conspiracy theories and unverified claims. Examples include:

  • Pizza gate — a baseless conspiracy about child trafficking in a D.C. pizzeria
  • George Soros Arrest Rumors — false reports of a Swiss arrest
  • COVID-19 Theories — unsubstantiated claims linking 5G or bioweapons to the pandemic

External Evaluations of Reliability

  • Media Bias/Fact Check (MBFC) rates it as “Questionable Source” with “Extreme Right” bias, poor sourcing, conspiratorial content, and low factual credibility.
  • Polities fact and others have labeled Before its news among notable fake-news sources, calling it "unabashedly unhinged."

Impact on SEO & External Perception

Some users have questioned whether backlinks from Before its news offer SEO advantages. While the site’s high domain authority can be tempting, many caution that its association with conspiracy-based and user-generated content could damage credibility in the long run.

How to Use Beforeitsnews Responsibly

If you choose to explore the site:

  1. Cross-check facts with reliable outlets.
  2. Evaluate sources look for credible authors and citations.
  3. Watch for sensational language; it often signals bias.
  4. Avoid spreading content unless it’s verified.
  5. Leverage fact-checking tools like Politie Fact or Snopes.

Alternatives for Trustworthy Tech or News

For reliable coverage, consider reputable alternatives:

  • TechCrunch — startup and tech-industry reporting
  • Ars Technica — deep-dive tech analysis
  • The Verge — consumer tech and culture
  • Coruzant Technologies — niche coverage on blockchain, AI, and IoT

Conclusion

Before its news represents a radical intersection of democratized media and digital chaos. Its purely open platform allows for unique voices but also opens the gates to misinformation, sensationalism, and conspiracy theories.

While it invites free expression, without editorial oversight, its reliability remains deeply questionable. Use it as a springboard for ideas not authority. Always balance its content with well-referenced, mainstream sources before drawing or sharing conclusions.