What is Misinformation

Misinformation is information that is false, misleading, or out-of-context. It is emotive, intentional, and designed to provoke a response. It is a deliberate act regardless of whether the information is false or valid. It is shared by those who believe it to be correct.

Fundamentally, the sharing of misinformation is about telegraphing a view of the world. In this sense, people who share misinformation do it because it conforms to their view of the world and they identify with the piece of information. They are widening and normalising a specific idea by sharing it with people of the same view. When misinformation is shared, the more it is repeated and the more people share and believe it, the more ‘factual’ misinformation becomes.

I shared something which resonates with me and will further unify my in-group who share my beliefs, it signals both my affirmation of belonging to a group who think like me and my acceptance by that group, when shared by others

— Candyce Kelshall

Misinformation Example: Covid-19

While studies demonstrate that the chances of dying from Covid-19 are higher in those who are obese and over 65, it is misleading and incorrect to claim that non-obese people and those under 65 face no risk from Covid-19. 

Despite the fact that there does exist a link between Covid-19 deaths and obesity, according to Professor John Wilding of the World Obesity Federation, stating that people who aren't obese aren't at risk is a "complete fallacy."