The Microsoft co-founder turned philanthropist has been attacked with falsehoods that he created the coronavirus and wants to profit from it.
Tag: Rumors and Misinformation
Putin’s Long War Against American Science
A decade of health disinformation promoted by President Vladimir Putin of Russia has sown wide confusion, hurt major institutions and encouraged the spread of deadly illnesses.
How a 5G Coronavirus Conspiracy Theory Fueled Arson and Harassment in Britain
A conspiracy theory linking the spread of the coronavirus to 5G wireless technology has spurred more than 100 incidents this month, British officials said.
Why Coronavirus Conspiracy Theories Flourish. And Why It Matters.
Unseen villains. Top-secret cures. In their quest for reassurance during the pandemic, many people are worsening more than just their own anxiety.
C.I.A. Hunts for Authentic Virus Totals in China, Dismissing Government Tallies
Intelligence officials have told the White House for weeks that China has vastly understated the spread of the coronavirus and the damage the pandemic has done.
How Russia’s Troll Farm Is Changing Tactics Before the Fall Election
The Kremlin-backed Internet Research Agency, which interfered in the 2016 election, is using different methods to hide itself better.
As Virus Spreads, China and Russia See Openings for Disinformation
The two powers amplify discredited conspiracy theories and sow division as they look to undermine the United States.
Surge of Virus Misinformation Stumps Facebook and Twitter
Secret labs. Magic cures. Government plots. Despite efforts by social media companies to stop it, false information about the coronavirus is proliferating around the world.
W.H.O. Fights a Pandemic Besides Coronavirus: an ‘Infodemic’
Working with the big tech companies, the U.N. health agency has made strides in combating rumors and falsehoods on the internet about the new infection.
Panic and Criticism Spread on Chinese Social Media Over Coronavirus
Chinese citizens are overcoming a lack of reporting on the crisis in the state-run media by sharing their own videos and information about the coronavirus outbreak.