FAQ

Misinformation is false or misleading information that is spread, but not necessarily with the intent to deceive. It often arises from misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or errors, such as sharing an outdated article or misquoting a fact.

The key difference lies in intent. Disinformation is deliberately created and shared with the intent to deceive and manipulate public opinion or obscure the truth. Misinformation, on the other hand, may be spread without any intent to harm.

Malinformation involves the use of truthful information in a way that is intended to inflict harm on a person or organization. For example, leaking someone's private information without their consent to damage their reputation is a form of malinformation.

Disinformation is often spread to manipulate public opinion, to create confusion, or to cause harm to an individual or group or even a Nation State. In some cases, it can also be for political benefits, using sensational false stories.

Check the credibility of the source, look for corroborating information from other reputable sources, and consider the plausibility and logic of the information. Tools like fact-checking websites can also be helpful. Check the Toolkit for more details.

Misinformation can erode trust in institutions, amplify divisions, influence public opinion on critical issues, and even lead to violence. Be vigilant.

We need to elaborate here given that this is a digital resistance toolkit

Social media can rapidly amplify misinformation due to its wide reach and the tendency of sensational or emotive content to be shared more frequently. See a list of Social Media Sources of Disinformation, Misinformation and Malinformation

Education can foster critical thinking, teach students how to evaluate sources and evidence, and promote understanding of digital media literacy.

News media should adhere to journalistic standards, fact-check their sources, provide balanced viewpoints, and avoid sensationalism that could mislead the public.

Approach the conversation with empathy, present evidence gently, avoid confrontation, and encourage critical thinking. It's often more effective to ask questions that lead the person to reconsider their beliefs than to directly challenge them.