Mis/Disinformation Hub
Understanding mis/disinformation. Resources on this page are designed to help identify and report misinformation.
Misinformation is false information spread unintentionally, disinformation is deliberate falsehoods spread intentionally to deceive, and malinformation is true information deliberately taken out of context to mislead.
Whilst the online world is a great resource for research, news, and connecting with the world around you, it is important to be aware of potential misinformation, disinformation – commonly known as ‘fake news.’
The news that we consume can help shape our opinions, views and attitudes, so being able to trust what you read and make informed judgements is vital.
When a serious incident or news story breaks, it will often trend on social media platforms and search engines as people attempt to find out more.
With such high volumes of information being posted and shared, some of it can be taken out of context, leading to the spread of fake news.
Be careful of accounts that are designed to look like reputable news sites, and check details such as account handles for variations in the spelling of account names to avoid getting caught out.
Examples of mis/disinformation within Liverpool City Region
It is always recommended that you use a trusted news website or local police statements to check whether they are also reporting the same narrative.
More than 30 people were arrested over social media posts that were shared after the murder of three children in Southport, and the misinformation spread across the country only exacerbated the hurt within the community.
Take a look at the below from BBC, The Independent and Full Fact on how fake news led to unrest after the Southport attacks.
It is always a good idea to look at the comments under an image before you share it.
A reverse image search can also help you to work out whether an image is genuine, or AI generated.
Take a look at some of the below articles on how this incident sparked a wave of misinformation.
Most misinformation and disinformation today are posted and spread on social media and messaging apps
Misinformation is not a new phenomena but today’s technology makes it easier and quicker than ever.
Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) also means that some bots can more closely mimic human behaviour, generating original language and content.
Ofcom research suggested that over 1/3 internet users are unaware that online content may be false or biased.
Reporting incidents of mis/disinformation or hate speech
Every social media platform has a slightly different method for reporting mis/disinformation. The sites listed below can signpost you to the right places to report to both individual platforms and to the police
Ofcom is the media and communications regulator for the United Kingdom, and they are committed to tackle mis, dis and malinformation.
Ofcom has set up an Information Advisory Committee – updates can be found here
They also currently have a consultation open regarding online safety here
