Types of Misinformation and Disinformation

Types of Mis- and Disinformation

• Disinformation: intentional spreading of false information to deceive and mislead people, often for political or financial gain
• Misinformation: spreading of false information without intending to deceive, often due to ignorance or confusion

7 Types of Mis- and Disinformation

1. Satire and Parody

• Can be mistaken for real news due to similarity in presentation
• Often uses irony, sarcasm, and ridicule to comment on current events
• Examples: The Onion, Clickhole

2. Propaganda

• Information used to promote a particular ideology or agenda
• Often biased, selective, and distorted to influence public opinion
• Can be spread through various media, including social media and news outlets

3. Spin

• Presentation of information with a biased or slanted perspective
• May exclude important context or facts to create a favorable impression
• Often used by politicians, public relations professionals, and marketers

4. Slant

• Biased or distorted presentation of information to influence public opinion
• Can involve selective reporting, omission of facts, or loaded language
• Examples: biased news outlets, opinion-driven articles

5. Hoaxes

• Deliberate spreading of false information, often for personal gain or notoriety
• Can be spread through social media, email, or other online platforms
• Examples: false news stories, fake celebrity deaths

6. Rumors

• Unverified information spread without evidence or confirmation
• Often spread through word of mouth, social media, or online forums
• Can be difficult to correct or retract once spread

7. Deepfakes

• Manipulated media, such as videos, audio, or images, created to deceive
• Can be used to spread misinformation, blackmail, or compromise individuals
• Examples: fake videos, audio recordings, or manipulated images

How to Spot Mis- and Disinformation

• Check the source: verify the credibility and reliability of the source
• Look for corroboration: check if other sources support the information
• Be skeptical: question information that seems too good (or bad) to be true
• Check the date: ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant
• Evaluate the language: beware of loaded or sensational language
• Seek out expert opinions: consult experts in relevant fields for informed opinions

Misinformation and Disinformation

• The term "fake news" is a misnomer, as "news" implies truth, making it a contradictory term.
• Misinformation refers to the unintentional dissemination of false information, while disinformation refers to the intentional dissemination of false information.
• Claire Wardle of First Draft outlines 7 types of misinformation and disinformation.

Types of Misinformation and Disinformation

• Satire or Parody: No intention to cause harm, but has intention to fool; uses humor to criticize a subject.
  • Examples: The Adobo Chronicles, So, What's News?, The Professional Heckler, and Agila Times.
  • How to spot: Investigate the source, read beyond the headline, or ask experts.
• False Connection: Headlines, visuals, or captions don't support the content.
  • How to spot: Read beyond the headline, or check your biases.
• Misleading Content: Misleading use of information to frame an issue or individual.
  • Example: Old video showing Imelda Marcos' acquittal in 2008.
  • How to spot: Look for similar stories or read beyond the headline.
• False Context: Genuine content is shared with false contextual information.
  • Example: Old news about DSWD packing 50,000 relief goods.
  • How to spot: Check the date, check your biases, or ask experts.
• Imposter Content: Genuine sources are impersonated.
  • Example: Altered URLs of credible news sites.
  • How to spot: Inspect the URL, investigate the source, or check the author.
• Manipulated Content: Genuine information or imagery is manipulated to deceive.
  • Example: Agot Isidro getting quoted about... (incomplete information)
• ** Fabricated Content**: Completely false information, no basis in reality.

This quiz helps you identify and spot 7 types of misinformation and disinformation. Learn how to critically evaluate information and avoid falling prey to false news.