Is it correct to be strict in accepting news and fatwas, such that they are only accepted from those who are trustworthy, and how can one identify reliable scholars?

Verifying information before accepting what unreliable sources transmit is a sound opinion and a wise approach, as Allah says: (O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful).

Ibn Al-Qayyim said: "Investigation is the seeking of the truth of a piece of information and encompassing it with knowledge. Allah did not command the outright rejection and denial of the news brought by a disobedient person; rather, He commanded investigation. If indications and proofs confirm its truthfulness, then it should be acted upon."

Al-Shanqeeti said: "This verse indicates two matters: the first is the obligation of verification if a disobedient person brings news whose truth can be ascertained, and the second is the acceptance of the news from a just person. This is because the implication of the verse indicates that if the one bringing news is not disobedient (i.e., a just person), then investigation of his news is not necessary."

Similarly, one should not receive knowledge except from those whose eligibility is known. Muslim narrated from Ibn Sireen: "Indeed, this knowledge is religion, so be careful from whom you take your religion." This is known through widespread reputation, common knowledge, or the commendation of scholars.

And taking the more cautious opinion when scholars differ is preferable and better, as long as it does not lead one to undue hardship and difficulty.