Definition
Disinformation is information that is verifiably false or misleading, distributed with intent to deceive. The intent distinguishes it from misinformation (sincerely repeated falsehoods) and from malinformation (true information weaponised).
Why this matters when reading conflict news
During active conflict, disinformation campaigns are routine. Recognising the pattern — sudden coordinated amplification, suspicious accounts, recycled imagery — helps avoid amplifying it.
Common misunderstandings
- An incorrect news report is not automatically disinformation. Intent matters.
- "Disinformation" is not a synonym for "reporting I disagree with".