Conceptual Relationships and Diffusion Model of Information, Misinformation and Disinformation

Background and Aim: Proper management of the information process requires considering various definitions and combinations of the term "information". The purpose of this study was to clarify the concepts of information, misinformation and disinformation, and to better understand the ways of sharing, differentiation and relationships between them, and to explain the patterns and motivations for disseminating false and deceptive information. Methods: The present study uses a library research method to study theoretical foundations and conceptual relationships of different types of information and their dissemination models. Results: Good and valuable information with features such as accessible, accurate, complete, economical, flexible, relevant, reliable, secure, simple, timely and verifiable. Misinformation is synonymous with incorrect, false, incorrect, incomplete information that is published unintentionally. While disinformation has two main characteristics of false information and misleading intent. Conclusion: Better understanding of the concepts of information, misinformation and disinformation, and understanding their different dimensions will be the basis for more accurate research in this field and more comprehensive analyzes. Providing critical thinking training and information assessment skills in the form of information literacy, literacy and the like can prevent the publication, retrieval and use of inaccurate and deceptive information by users.