Embedded Files
Spotting misinformation, disinformation and malinformation
To push back against the growing tide of misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation, a trio collectively referred to as “information disorder”, it’s essential to ask critical questions about what we’re seeing and sharing.
Start with authority - Who produced this information?
Are they a qualified expert or simply offering a personal opinion?
Is it coming from a reputable organisation, or an individual with no clear credentials?
Reliable content will often cite its sources and make it possible to trace or contact the author.
Next, consider purpose
What’s the intention behind this message?
Is it informing, persuading, selling, or provoking?
Look for signs of emotional manipulation such as attention-grabbing images, extreme language, or one-sided arguments. Does the piece acknowledge other perspectives, or does it push a particular political, ideological, or cultural agenda?
By sharpening our awareness and asking these questions, we can build greater resilience against the manipulative tactics that seek to undermine and misinform.
Report misinformation, disinformation and malinformation
Stopping the spread of misleading messaging online is important. If you see anything on social media platforms that doesn’t look right, whether it’s a post by a celebrity or a message from a family member in a WhatsApp group, you can report it.
You can report to:
https://www.gov.uk/report-suspicious-emails-websites-phishing
https://saferinternet.org.uk/online-issue/misinformation
https://www.stophateuk.org/about-hate-crime/what-is-online-hate-crime/misinformation-and-fake-news/
Global Action Plan, an environmental charity aiming to gather and understand the breadth of climate conspiracies and denialism online.
Email: truth@globalactionplan.org.uk
WhatsApp: 020 4534 3913
Stay safe
Online: It’s best not to directly engage with popular accounts spreading Misinformation. We’re not talking about individuals with varying viewpoints, including those at the extreme end. But those whose audience is built on dis/misinformation and those who profit off serving us this information. At best it’ll waste your time and at worst, you’ll be harassed and possibly threatened. Plus, those algorithms will be boosted, resulting in further promotion of this kind of content.
Delete comments by misinformation contributors on your posts, so no-one else can see them. Don't forget you can also block users too. You can always take a screenshot first if you want to keep a record of them.
Online hate can take a real toll on our mental health. It's emotionally exhausting. Don’t face it alone. Reach out to someone you trust and take time to care for yourself.
If comments or messages are threatening, report them to the social media platform and to the police.
Take a screenshot of the comments, posts or messages that you see and send them to those listed above.
For more information please contact us at info@ryecroftnrc.org
Report abuse