Misinformation vs. Disinformation
WHAT THE DEAL WITH DISINFORMATION AND MISINFORMATION?
Misinformation and Disinformation makes the world less informed and
erodes trust and truth on social media as this type of info spreads farther
and faster than truthful information. Often these topics are on
divisive issues, such as politics and widespread events.
People fall for misinformation because often it is presenting something
that is outstanding or powerful yet convincing. Whether that it be a significant
statistic or a crazy fact or incredible promises, the enticing nature of these
things make people interested and ultimately fall for it
Misinformation and Disinformation
What is it anyway?
Misinformation is any false, inaccurate or
misleading information but without ill intent
Disinformation is also false information that is spread
but the difference between the two is that Disinformation
deliberately is spread to deceive people
as a form of propaganda whereas misinformation is not.
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HOW DOES IT SPREAD?
The flow of misinformation is a function of both human and technical factors.
Humans are more likely to react to content that pique existing interests and beliefs,
inflammatory info on these things will generate quick engagement from users
leading to the social media algorithms sharing more of it more widespread.
WHO SPREADS MIS/DIS INFO AND WHY?
Politicians, Social Media Influencers, and even users of social media often are the ones
who spread it. This is to either try and sway people to gain support or share something
that they believe to be true and interesting to gain traction for attention or money.