The English word disinformation, which did not appear in dictionaries until the late-1980s, is a translation of the Russian дезинформация, transliterated as dezinformatsiya.[2][6][1] Where misinformation refers to inaccuracies that stem from error, disinformation is a deliberate falsehood promulgated by design.[4] Misinformation can be used to create disinformation when known misinformation is purposefully and intentionally disseminated.[13] The tactic has been used throughout history, being deployed during the long Roman-Persian Wars, at the Battle of Mount Gindarus, the Battle of Telephis–Ollaria, and Heraclius assault on Persia,for instance.
Disinformation is primarily carried out by government intelligence agencies, but has also been used by non-governmental organizations and businesses.[14] Front groups are a form of disinformation, as they mislead the public about their true objectives and who their controllers are.[15] Most recently, disinformation has been deliberately spread through social media in the form of “fake news”, disinformation masked as legitimate news articles and meant to mislead readers or viewers.[16] Disinformation may include distribution of forged documents, manuscripts, and photographs, or spreading dangerous rumours and fabricated intelligence. Use of these tactics can lead to blowback, however, causing such unintended consequences such as defamation lawsuits or damage to the dis-informer’s reputation.[15]
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