Abstract: The rise in fake news or the deliberate dissemination of false information mainly through social and traditional media raises serious concerns as to the kind of information the public is receiving. There exists confusion as to what fake news is all about, sources, and how to identify fake news. This paper attempts to demystify fake news , looks at the common media platforms used to share fake news, and highlights the reasons why people disseminate fake news. In addition, the paper analysis the structural and environmental dynamics that have led traditional mainstream media contribute to the rise of fake news. Research indicates that this phenomena has solicited global initiatives and resources for verification of news to address fake news highlighted herein. In conclusion, fake news pose a challenge to news as defined under journalism and mass media studies and practices and it is important that research continues