MIS-information is not DIS-information and the difference lies in the intention.

The European Union defines disinformation as false, inaccurate or misleading information designed, presented and promoted to intentionally cause public harm or for profit.

Here’s an easy way to keep them straight.

• Think of the MIS in misinformation as being MIS-taken. They’re misguided in believing it and innocent in sharing it.
• Think of how the DIS in disinformation sounds like the first syllable of deceive. Those who are spreading disinformation are deliberately seeking to delude others.
• Disinformation becomes misinformation when someone believes what they’ve read is true and shares it with their circle of influence.

Now that internet censorship is increasing, who gets to say which content is misinformation? It’s those with the most power of influence and those who stand to lose profits based on what people do.