The hottest Disinformation Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Uh, Oh, Again: Homeland Security Role in Bizarre Election Day "Tabletop Exercise" Denied

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 7968 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Integrity Government Agencies Cybersecurity Disinformation Public Perception
  1. The Department of Homeland Security's role in a planned cybersecurity exercise on Election Day was denied, creating confusion about their involvement.
  2. Senator Rand Paul raised concerns about the timing of the exercise, questioning why officials would practice cybersecurity on such an important day for elections.
  3. The situation escalated when organizers of the event retracted their statements about DHS/CISA's participation, leading to speculation and fears about election integrity.

Media Spreads Dangerous Disinformation About Trump Rally

Michael Shellenberger • 1659 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Disinformation Racism Crisis
  1. The media accused Trump of hosting a racist rally, but many claims about the event were misleading. No actual racist or anti-Semitic remarks were reported at the rally.
  2. Connections made between the rally, past events, and public figures don't prove anything racist or harmful. The mentions of historical rallies or comedians don't reflect the current situation accurately.
  3. Issues like Puerto Rico's trash problem were mentioned in a way intended to critique the island's waste management, not to offend its people. The humor in some comments can be taken out of context and misunderstood.

Election Exclusive: British Advisors to Kamala Harris Hope to "Kill Musk's Twitter"

The DisInformation Chronicle • 2465 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Strategy Foreign influence Political Campaigns Disinformation Legislation
  1. A group of British advisors is working with Kamala Harris to undermine Elon Musk's Twitter. They plan to do this by attacking its advertising revenue and promoting censorship.
  2. The Center for Countering Digital Hate, linked to these advisors, has been active in U.S. politics, attempting to influence legislation and public perception about misinformation online.
  3. There are concerns about the legality of the CCDH's actions, especially since they may violate rules for tax-exempt organizations by engaging in substantial lobbying efforts.

UK Government And Media Spread Disinformation About Southport Killer, Evidence Suggests

Michael Shellenberger • 862 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disinformation Government Media Terrorism Islamophobia
  1. The UK media and government initially blamed far-right groups for spreading false information about a stabbing incident, claiming a Muslim migrant was the attacker. However, this was later disproven.
  2. The police have charged the suspect with producing a deadly poison and possessing an al-Qaeda training manual, suggesting a possible link to radical groups.
  3. There are questions about whether the UK government knew about the suspect's background earlier than they revealed, raising concerns about their handling of information during the incident.

Investigation into Imran Ahmed's Center for Countering Digital Hate Hits Global Audience

The DisInformation Chronicle • 435 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election interference Disinformation Media Coverage Political Influence
  1. An investigation into a British group is gaining worldwide attention for allegedly interfering in American elections. This shows how global these issues can be.
  2. The story reached over 40 million views on social media, highlighting its popularity and importance. It even got discussed on a major BBC program.
  3. Various media appearances and interviews are ongoing, emphasizing the connection between censorship and democracy. This issue is resonating with many people.
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Trump Camp: British Censorship Group to be "Investigated From All Angles"

The DisInformation Chronicle • 1000 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Strategy Censorship Disinformation Political Influence
  1. The Trump campaign plans to investigate the UK-based Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) after discovering their agenda includes targeting platforms like Twitter. They feel this group is unfairly attacking political allies of Trump.
  2. CCDH has been involved in recent electoral strategies and supports stricter online censorship measures. This has raised concerns among Trump supporters, who believe foreign groups shouldn't influence US elections.
  3. The CCDH has shown a focus on deplatforming specific voices and intervening in elections, leading to worries about free speech. Their documents indicate a clear agenda against platforms perceived as harmful.

The ‘Black Insurrectionist’ account is run by a white man

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2627 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disinformation Influencers Media Critique Cultural shift Election Dynamics
  1. A social media account promoting false theories about politics is actually managed by a white man pretending to be Black. This raises concerns about transparency in the online creator space.
  2. People are becoming more critical of wealthy influencers flaunting their luxuries, showing a shift towards less tolerance for excessive consumption.
  3. There's a growing pattern of conspiracy theories on both sides of the political spectrum, highlighting how misinformation can spread among different groups.

Narcissistic Wounding Behind Media Disinformation On Liz Cheney, Trump Rally, And Vaccines

Michael Shellenberger • 1505 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Disinformation Public Trust Political Rhetoric Social media
  1. The media is increasingly deceptive, making false claims about events, like Trump's rally and vaccine issues. This creates distrust among the public.
  2. Legacy journalists seem angry about new voices on social media that challenge traditional narratives. They react negatively to this shift in authority.
  3. Accurate reporting is essential, but misinformation can spread quickly and impact public perception. It's important to verify facts before believing them.

9 ways to spot falsehoods

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1105 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Misinformation Public Health Vaccines Elections Disinformation Critical Thinking
  1. Check the basic logic of claims before sharing. If something sounds outrageous, take a moment to think it through.
  2. Follow the money behind the claims you see. If someone profits from spreading a story, be cautious about believing it.
  3. Stay skeptical and ask questions. The more you look into a claim, the better you'll understand its truth.

From the Storm to the Stormtroopers

Thinking about... • 288 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Fascism Climate change Disinformation Government Democracy
  1. Disinformation can turn people against their government, making it hard to respond to real crises like climate change. It's easier for some leaders to create enemies than to solve problems.
  2. When people lose faith in democracy, they'll look to a strong leader instead of the law. This can lead to a dangerous kind of politics where personal favors replace justice.
  3. As climate change worsens, politicians may blame people from other countries instead of their own policies. This creates more division and conflict among people.

Dissecting A Modern Vaccine Propaganda Piece

The Forgotten Side of Medicine • 8824 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccines Science Politics Propaganda Disinformation
  1. The author dissects a modern vaccine propaganda piece and reveals tactics used to defend unchallenged arguments.
  2. Peter Hotez is highlighted as drawing the ire of the vaccine safety community by defending the vaccine narrative and attacking critics.
  3. Hotez's suggestions to silence opposition and his rhetoric are critiqued for their implications on free speech and public debate.

“UK Files” Exclusive, Part 2: The Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) Told the IRS It Was A Charity. Documents Say Otherwise

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 3820 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Disinformation Political speech Media Lobbying
  1. The Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) incorrectly claimed charity status with the IRS, raising questions about their truthfulness.
  2. The CCDH is known for pressuring companies to restrict certain content and promoting its own political agenda in the media space.
  3. The CCDH's ties to major-party politics and regulatory mix-ups suggest a complex background and operational strategy.

Moscow Marjorie

Diane Francis • 1119 implied HN points • 18 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Espionage Legislation Disinformation Democracy
  1. Russia is spreading misinformation and trying to weaken democracies around the world. This includes spying and undercover operations in Europe and the US.
  2. Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene are seen as supporters of Russia, often sharing ideas that align with Russian narratives.
  3. There are concerns about Trump's demand to limit the FISA Act, which helps protect the US from foreign threats, despite warnings from former officials about the risks.

Israel Attacked: Pushing Back on Right Wing Disinfo

The Message Box • 3793 implied HN points • 09 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disinformation Terrorism International relations Media Social media
  1. Fast-moving events are fertile ground for disinformation, especially when shared without context or confirmation.
  2. The claim that the U.S. funded the attack in Iran is false; the unfrozen funds were for humanitarian assistance only.
  3. Claims circulating that U.S. weapons were used in the attack are also false; the photo shared is from 2021 in Afghanistan, not Israel.

How I Won a Disinformation Battle — But Lost the War

The Garden of Forking Paths • 2358 implied HN points • 14 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disinformation Debunking Political Scandal Media influence Information Warfare
  1. Disinformation can be spread effectively by creating simple, captivating narratives.
  2. False information tends to stick in people's minds, even after being corrected.
  3. Debunking lies is important, but it's crucial to present the truth in a way that resonates with the audience and to address disinformation strategically.

Did Government-Sponsored Disinformation Make COVID-19 Worse?

Who is Robert Malone • 12 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disinformation Public Health Government Policy COVID-19 Media influence
  1. Government-sponsored disinformation can worsen public health outcomes, especially during epidemics like COVID-19. It leads to greater infection rates and a lack of trust in health authorities.
  2. Fear-based messaging from health campaigns can backfire, creating distrust and resistance among the public. This can reduce vaccine uptake and compliance with health guidelines.
  3. It's important for governments to stop spreading disinformation and focus on transparent communication to effectively manage public health crises.

It’s Time To Save Civilization From The Pathocratic State

Public • 766 implied HN points • 01 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Democracy Media Control Authoritarianism Totalitarianism Disinformation
  1. The media and political establishment are seen as a greater threat to democracy than populist movements.
  2. The term 'pathocracy' is used to describe leadership positions filled with narcissists and psychopaths.
  3. Governments and mainstream establishments have engaged in manipulative and authoritarian actions over the years.

Totalitarian Manipulation Of Language Behind Woke Destruction Of Harvard, New York Times, And Other Elite Institutions

Public • 683 implied HN points • 26 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elite Institutions Totalitarianism Censorship Disinformation
  1. Elite institutions like Harvard and The New York Times have been accused of spreading misinformation and undermining their missions.
  2. The manipulation of language and censorship in these institutions is concerning and reminiscent of totalitarian regimes.
  3. To combat this trend, we need to understand how these values contrary to truth and honesty gained power.

President von der Leyen's WEF Speech Shows She Will Never Let a Good Crisis Go to Waste

THE FREEDOM BLOG • 412 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics European Union Global Cooperation Censorship Disinformation
  1. President von der Leyen emphasizes the need for businesses and governments to collaborate in addressing the risks of misinformation and disinformation.
  2. The fight against misinformation should consider that it comes from various sources and political biases, not just easily identified malicious actors.
  3. Caution should be exercised in handing over internet regulation to a political elite, as it may lead to power grabs disguised as cooperation.

Russian Revisionism

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Disinformation Conflict International relations History
  1. Russia has a long history of spreading misinformation to hide the truth about its actions and policies. This dishonesty is a key part of its government strategy.
  2. Two major false narratives are currently promoted by Russia: one is that it is a great empire deserving of pride, and the other is that Ukraine is not a real country invaded by Russia for noble reasons.
  3. Disinformation tactics include tailoring messages to different groups and undermining Ukraine's efforts, showing how Russia manipulates information to divert blame and distract from its own wrongdoings.

False Claims Of “Insurrection,” Minutes After January 6 Capitol Riot, Suggest Disinformation Plot

Public • 488 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disinformation Insurrection
  1. False claims of insurrection were made minutes after the January 6 Capitol riot, hinting at a disinformation plot.
  2. Former President Donald Trump was denied a place on the ballot in two states due to claims of ineligibility under the 14th Amendment.
  3. There's a disparity in how violent political activities like the January 6 riot and the Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone in Seattle were treated, showing a double standard.

Censorship Leaders Accuse Us Of Antisemitism And Play The Victim In Response To Our Reporting

Public • 460 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Disinformation Government Influence
  1. Leaders in censorship are accusing others of antisemitism and playing the victim.
  2. Reports reveal a larger strategy involving sophisticated military techniques aimed at domestic population.
  3. Response from CTIL to research provides insights into government-led censorship and influence operations.

US Military Contractors Used Counterterrorism Tactics Against The American People, New Documents Show

Public • 435 implied HN points • 04 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Military Intelligence Disinformation Censorship
  1. US military contractors used counterterrorism tactics against the American people
  2. Tactics included psychological operations, debanking, and changing social media platforms' Terms of Service
  3. The Censorship Industrial Complex waged influence operations using offensive methods like disinformation campaigns and debanking

'Demonic force': Dominion lawsuit reveals Fox knowingly spread election lies

georgelakoff • 432 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Disinformation Democracy Fox News
  1. Dominion Voting Systems filed a $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox for knowingly spreading election lies
  2. Fox personalities like Tucker Carlson and Laura Ingraham privately expressed disbelief at Trump's false attacks on democracy but still spread those lies on air
  3. Fox chose to prioritize ratings over truth by airing false claims about the election and pressuring employees who fact-checked the lies

Disinformation aplenty from the aptly named Disinformation Project.

A B’Old Woman • 639 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disinformation Trans rights Hate Speech Public Policy Social Issues
  1. There is growing online hate towards trans people, especially after certain events that sparked this backlash. This highlights ongoing tensions in discussions around trans rights.
  2. The argument that there is 'no evidence' of trans people being violent is seen as misleading. Critics say that this overlooks the need for better data collection on the impacts of trans policies.
  3. Some believe that allowing trans women into women's spaces increases risk to women and girls. This viewpoint stresses the need for careful consideration around policies involving gender identity.

US Government Officials Sought To Censor Narratives and Interfere In 2020 Election, Newly Released Emails Show

Public • 362 implied HN points • 29 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Officials Election interference Censorship Disinformation
  1. Newly released emails show US government officials sought to censor narratives and interfere in the 2020 election.
  2. Department of Homeland Security's methods of information control aimed at narrative control and election interference.
  3. Government-backed censorship was revealed to be part of a larger political influence operation to shape public opinion.

Renewables Mania And Woke Dogma Behind Hawaii Fire, Not Climate Change

Public • 469 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Wildfires Renewable Energy Environmental Policy Disinformation
  1. Climate change may not have directly caused the Hawaii fire, as the strong winds from Hurricane Dora played a significant role.
  2. Human-made changes to the landscape, including the growth of invasive grasses due to former sugar cane farms, contributed to the fire's intensity.
  3. Issues like failure to clear flammable grasses around electric wires and delayed release of water by a state official also played crucial roles in the Hawaii fire.

Pseudoscience, Greed, And Nihilism Behind Disinformation On Climate Change And Fires

Public • 413 implied HN points • 28 Aug 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Disinformation Climate change Pseudoscience Nihilism
  1. Climate change is not the main cause of increasing wildfires globally, despite popular belief.
  2. The amount of area burned annually by fire has actually decreased over the last quarter-century.
  3. Preventing uncontrollable forest fires involves better forest management practices like selective logging and prescribed burning.

Disinformation & Why People Believe It

The Digital Anthropologist • 19 implied HN points • 03 Jul 24
📰 News Disinformation Storytelling Conspiracy Theories Online Communities Critical Thinking
  1. Disinformation and misinformation are unintended consequences of the early days of the Digital Age, impacting societies globally.
  2. Disinformation often revolves around storytelling, with different groups creating narratives to shape their reality.
  3. The spread of disinformation is fueled by the rapid dissemination of stories in our hyperconnected world, highlighting the need for critical thinking skills in education.