nihkeinformatsiooni

**nihkeinformatsiooni** refers to the deliberate dissemination of false or misleading information, often with the intent to deceive, manipulate, or influence public opinion. The term is derived from Estonian, where *nihe* means "shift" or "distortion," and *informatsioon* means "information." It encompasses a range of tactics, including disinformation, misinformation, and malinformation, each serving different purposes in spreading incorrect or manipulated content.

Disinformation involves the intentional spread of false information, knowing it to be untrue, often to achieve a political, social, or economic goal. Misinformation, on the other hand, refers to the unintentional sharing of false information, even if the source believes it to be accurate. Malinformation involves the deliberate use of true but contextually distorted information to mislead audiences.

The phenomenon has gained prominence in the digital age, where social media platforms and algorithms facilitate rapid and widespread dissemination of content. State actors, political groups, and even individuals may employ nihkeinformatsiooni to undermine trust in institutions, polarize societies, or advance specific agendas. Fact-checking organizations and media literacy initiatives have emerged as countermeasures to combat its effects.

While nihkeinformatsiooni can occur in any context, it is particularly prevalent in political discourse, where it can shape public perception and influence elections. Recognizing and addressing its impact requires critical thinking, media literacy, and responsible information-sharing practices to ensure informed decision-making.