Detecting tricks of context
Educator resources
Misinformation
Watch out for these four common tricks of context:
- False context: Presenting genuine media in an entirely new, false context.
- Example: A years-old photo being presented as if it were taken during a recent event.
- Misrepresentation: Presenting accurate facts or genuine visuals in a misleading fashion.
- Example: An accurate statistic presented in a way that alters the meaning of a larger trend.
- Stolen satire: Presenting satirical content as if it were accurate information from a reliable source.
- Example: A satirical article or meme shared without a disclaimer labeling it as satire.
- Selective edits: Removing essential context from a piece of media to create a false understanding of an issue or event.
- Example: A misleading shortened clip that creates an inaccurate perception of something a person said.
This infographic also includes a list of tips to debunk tricks of context and avoid being fooled.


