disinformation

Political scientists say growing acceptance of unfounded conspiracy theories is fueling disengagement and distrust in democratic institutions, an effect that is trickling down to local politics.

Dirty tricks and disinformation have been used to intimidate and mislead voters in the past. But they have been especially pervasive this year amid a chaotic and contentious election.

Foreign nations have been systematically spreading falsehoods on social media for years; in 2019, it seemed like the world began to fully grasp the ramifications of disinformation campaigns.

Nearly 90 percent of accounts that spread disinformation during the presidential election continue to operate and spread or amplify false stories, a new study concludes.