Final answer:
To assess the credibility of an article that presents ways to avoid fraud, one should consider if it is published by a government agency, which often adds authority. Additionally, an author's credentials and a neutral perspective lend credibility, whereas clear language alone does not guarantee trustworthiness.
Step-by-step explanation:
To evaluate the credibility and reliability of a claim that consumers can avoid fraud by following advice in an article, one must look at various aspects that contribute to the article's authority on the subject. First, if an article is published by a government agency, it often carries weight as it is assumed they have no profit motive and are tasked with public service, enhancing the credibility of the information. Meanwhile, the inclusion of tips and the description of recognizable scams provide practical advice, but they do not inherently establish the trustworthiness of the article. Lastly, clear and simple language does make the information accessible but does not directly confer authenticity. Overall, a government-published article along with the author's credentials, the fair presentation of facts, and the absence of bias collectively serve to validate the claim within the article.