Misinformation vs Disinformation: What’s the difference and what to look for

(WHTM) — Information is more accessible now than ever, but wrong information can be spread just as rapidly as true information.

When it comes to wrong information, our society has used two terms interchangeably: “misinformation” and “disinformation.” Despite this habit, these two words hold different meanings, and it is important to understand the difference.

Misinformation

According to Dictionary.com , misinformation is defined as “false information that is spread, regardless of intent to mislead.” The emphasis should be placed on the second half of the definition, as misinformation is false information that is spread without the knowledge that it is wrong.

Dictionary.com says misinformation happens often, as humans make mistakes and forget things. It is an everyday occurrence and is even more prevalent in today’s technological world. However, regardless of intent, if the information being spread is wrong or misleading, it is classified as misinformation.

Disinformation

On the other hand, disinformation is much more malicious, in nature. Dictionary.com’s general definition of disinformation is “deliberately misleading or biased information; manipulated narrative or facts; propaganda.”

In contrast to the definition of misinformation, disinformation is intentionally spreading false information with the intent to deceive and mislead.

The site says disinformation is powerful, destructive, and divisive, and is a common tool for espionage. When a country or group coordinates a complicated plan for spreading disinformation, it is often referred to as a disinformation campaign. Propaganda, which is information spread to make someone or something look bad or good, can be considered disinformation, per Dictionary.com.

Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt participated in one of many daily media briefings leading up to the Nov. 5 general election . During a briefing, he spoke on the rise of disinformation in our hyperpartisan political climate.

“Disinformation is designed to discourage confidence and participation in our electoral system, and we expect it will continue to spread in the coming weeks, so voters should be on alert. We’re asking voters to get and verify election information from sources that they recognize and trust, such as the County Elections’ Office and the Pennsylvania Department of State.”

The last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot is October 29, and ballots must be returned to your county Board of Election by 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 5. Pennsylvania’s voter registration date has now passed.

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