Disinformation—deliberately false information spread to deceive—and misinformation—false or misleading information spread without malicious intent—can both distort the democratic process, undermine trust, and spread confusion. This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to identify, understand, and counteract both forms of false information, particularly during election cycles.
We’ll start by breaking down the differences between disinformation and misinformation in the context of elections. This section will help you understand how both intentional and unintentional falsehoods can spread and how to recognize the signs of each in the content you encounter.
Here, you’ll find resources designed to help you verify election information, critically assess sources, and separate fact from fiction. This section provides practical tools to navigate the information landscape effectively, ensuring that you’re informed, not misled.
By examining real-world examples, we can better understand how disinformation and misinformation have been used in past elections and what lessons can be applied to current and future scenarios. These case studies offer a grounded perspective on the tactics and impacts of false information.
The spread of disinformation and misinformation isn’t just a technical issue—it’s a significant ethical challenge with legal consequences. This section explores the ethical considerations and legal frameworks involved in managing and mitigating the impact of false information in elections.
