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Misinformation & Fake News Guide

What's the Difference?

Everyone has heard the term "fake news" - but do you know what it means? Do you know the difference between misinformation and disinformation? Understanding the various ways that false information is shared and the motives and appeal behind it is important in avoiding and combating it. 

Definitions of terms associated with false information
Term Definition Source
Misinformation “false information that is spread, regardless of whether there is intent to mislead.” Dictionary.com
Disinformation “deliberately misleading or biased information; manipulated narrative or facts; propaganda.” Dictionary.com
Fake News "false news stories, often of a sensational nature, created to be widely shared or distributed for the purpose of generating revenue, or promoting or discrediting a public figure, political movement, company, etc."

Dictionary.com

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Subjects: General Help