DEPICT

D for discrediting

Journalists, mainstream media and science are often targets. Doubt is sown about credibility through deflection and denial.

E for emotion

Content that appeals to basic emotions such as fear and anger gets more traction.

P for polarisation

Political polarisation is a central aim of targeted disinformation campaigns.

I for impersonation

Pretending to be someone else online e.g., a celebrity or politician, fake medical expert or a legitimate news organisation.

C for conspiracy

Real events are leveraged to cast doubt on mainstream or official explanations (see conspiracy theory factsheet)

T is for trolling

Journalists and fact checkers are often targeted as well as politicians during election campaigns by a constant barrage of inflammatory comments to whip up public outrage and sow doubt over their credibility.