Which term refers to false information without the intent to deceive?

• A. Disinformation
• B. Misinformation
• C. Malinformation
• D. Infotainment

Answer: (B)

Misinformation is false information spread without the intent to deceive. It happens when someone believes what they’re sharing is true, but the claim is incorrect because of a mistake, misunderstanding, or incomplete information. The key idea is intent: there’s no goal to mislead. In contrast, disinformation is deliberately false information created to deceive, malinformation involves true information used to harm or manipulate, and infotainment blends information with entertaining or sensational framing. An example would be someone sharing a misread statistic or a rumor they believe is true; their aim isn’t to trick others, but the information ends up being incorrect. Understanding the role of intent helps explain why misinformation can still be harmful and how to verify facts.