The Role of Disinformation During Crisis Events

Recent hurricanes in the southeastern United States have been utilized as a backdrop for rampant disinformation, particularly in the context of the upcoming presidential election. Experts note that these dual crises—natural disasters and political elections—breed uncertainty, which can amplify confusion among the public. This disarray encourages the spread of rumors concerning election processes, including how to cast votes and meet voter ID requirements. Misleading narratives have emerged, including unverified claims that powerful figures manipulated the hurricanes to influence election outcomes, showcasing how misinformation thrives amidst real hardships.