Misinformation

From the IFTAS Moderator Library, supporting Fediverse trust & safety

Updated on 2024-05-01

Definition

False information that is spread unintentionally and usually not maliciously, which may nonetheless mislead or increase likelihood of harm to persons.

See also: Disinformation

Background

Misinformation refers to false information spread without intent to harm, often stemming from misunderstandings or mistakes, for example sharing the news that a celebrity has died before realising it’s not true. Disinformation is deliberately created and disseminated with the aim to deceive and manipulate public opinion or obscure the truth. Hoaxes fall under disinformation, crafted to trick or entertain, sometimes with malicious intent, other times for satire or critique, requiring audiences to critically evaluate the credibility and source of the information they encounter.

Classifications

  • Error: a genuine source makes mistakes
  • Fabricated Content: 100% false information, created to deceive
  • False Connection: headline or captions do not support the content
  • False Context: genuine content shared with false contextual information
  • Imposter Content: impersonation of genuine sources
  • Manipulated Content: genuine text or media is changed with the intent to deceive
  • Misleading Content: content is used in a misleading manner to improperly frame an issue
  • Propaganda: content used to manipulate attitudes
  • Satire and Parody: no intent to deceive but has the potential to be believed
  • Sponsored Content: paid or advertising content disguised as genuine content

Investigation Tools

Education

Example Rule

Spreading false or misleading information knowingly or recklessly is prohibited.

Discussion

Discuss this label in the Misinformation forum.

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