Questioning a rumor is a great way to stop it in its tracks. When someone passes along a rumor, ask them how they know whether it’s true.
crowdsourced tips
When someone shares a rumor, ask how they would feel if someone said that about them.
When you hear a rumor, suggest that you give the person the benefit of the doubt.
Ask someone where they heard the rumor from and how they can be sure it’s true.
Consider phrases like, “How do you know that’s true?” “Really? Where’d you hear that?” “Why are we spreading rumors about her? Let’s talk about something more interesting,” or “How would you feel if someone said that about you?”