Slipwashing

Slipwashing is a term that has emerged to describe a specific type of misinformation spread online. It refers to the deliberate and calculated release of false or misleading information that is designed to appear as if it is being corrected or debunked by someone else. The "slip" in slipwashing implies an accidental revelation or oversight, masking the intentional nature of the disinformation.

The primary goal of slipwashing is to introduce and legitimize false narratives into public discourse. By framing the misinformation as a correction, the originator attempts to bypass the usual scrutiny that outright falsehoods face. This can be effective because people are often more receptive to information presented as a clarification or update, rather than a direct lie. The perceived honesty of the "correction" can lend credibility to the underlying false premise, making it more likely to be accepted and spread.

This tactic often involves creating a two-step process. First, a piece of false information is subtly introduced. Then, at a later time, a seemingly different source or individual "discovers" this information and presents it as something that needs to be clarified or debunked. This second step, the "slip," is where the actual misinformation is solidified. Slipwashing is a sophisticated form of propaganda that exploits human psychology and the rapid dissemination of information on social media platforms. Identifying and understanding this technique is crucial for navigating the modern information landscape and combating the spread of disinformation.