Misinformation, Disinformation and Malinformation
What does it all mean?
The internet makes it easy for people all over the world to find information in just a few keystrokes. This also makes it easy to spread false information. Mis-, Dis- and Malinformation can lead to disastrous consequences for individuals and society. It can “pollute” our information environment at many levels: politically, economically, commercially, or simply personally.
Click on the flip cards to learn more:
Information and intent relationship
If you are finding it tricky to remember the difference between them, refer to the graph below, which illustrates whether the information is genuine or fabricated and if it is designed to inflict harm.
Information intent graph
Overview
The graph has four squares, and the horizontal axis shows the level of intended harm and the vertical axis indicates whether the information is fact or false. The boxes in the graph are as follows:
Genuine information
Factual information intended to inform. This is in the bottom left of the graph, indicating that the information is factual and not intended to cause harm.
Misinformation
Unintentionally misleading information presented as fact. This is in the top left of the graph, as it is false but not intended to cause harm.
Malinformation
Based on fact, but used out of context to mislead, harm, or manipulate. This is in the bottom right of the graph demonstrating that it is factual and intended to harm.
Disinformation
Deliberately created to mislead, harm or manipulate. This is in the top right of the graph as it is both false and intended to harm.
Types of false information
There are many types of false information. Read through the some of the examples below to learn more.
Satire or parody
Using humour to exaggerate or mock.
Propaganda
One sided content that is spread to influence people's opinions
Imposter content
When someone impersonates a genuine source
Fabricated content
False information designed to look genuine to deceive people
False connection
Content is not supported by the headlines, visuals or captions
Manipulated content
Factually accurate content that is disguised to deceive people
Clickbait
Eye-catching content that is designed to make people want to read it
Errors
When reputable organisations unintentionally publish content with mistakes
Sponsored content
Hidden advertising or PR content that looks like an editorial
False context
False information is mixed with genuine content in order to mislead.
Remember and reflect
Key takeaway
There are lots of types of false information out there. Refer to this guide as a starting point for identifying them.
Consider
Have you encountered misinformation whilst researching?
As you have seen above, there are a range of ways information can be misleading and inaccurate. Keep these in mind when you are searching for resources. In the next section we will consider ways to build your critical thinking skills to help you identify misinformation.