Category: Rumors and Misinformation

BP, Once a Hunter in the Oil Industry, Is Now Prey. What Went Wrong?

The energy giant has been weakened by years of mishaps and poor decisions, leading to rumors of a takeover that may not subside.
America’s Adversaries Are Gaining the Global Megaphone

The U.S. is dismantling key communications efforts abroad, once a major part of its efforts to build soft power. Its rivals are eager to fill the vacuum.
Trump to Again Extend TikTok’s Reprieve From U.S. Ban

The president plans to sign another executive order this week that would give the popular video app more time to change its ownership structure.
The ‘Mansophere’ Just Wants Trump and Musk to Get Along

The public spat between the billionaire Elon Musk and President Trump has captivated MAGA-friendly podcasters, including Joe Rogan and Theo Von.
South Africa Sets the Stage for Starlink Approval

A proposed regulatory change would allow Elon Musk’s satellite company and others like it to get a license without having to sell shares to Black South Africans.
Deepfake Laws Bring Prosecution and Penalties, but Also Pushback

Dozens of A.I.-related regulations enacted in the past two years now lead to fines, incarceration and legal challenges from the likes of Elon Musk.
A.I.-Generated Reading List in Chicago Sun-Times Recommends Nonexistent Books

A summer reading insert recommended made-up titles by real authors such as Isabel Allende and Delia Owens. The Sun-Times and The Philadelphia Inquirer have apologized.
Retirees Are Filing for Social Security Earlier. Why?

An additional 276,000 people filed for Social Security benefits so far this fiscal year, up 13% from a year ago. Anxiety appears to be a driver.
Trump Administration Cancels Scores of Grants to Study Online Misinformation

Federal agencies say that by axing the funding they are protecting the First Amendment. Critics see it as stifling scientific inquiry into sources of harmful online content.
Is Dear Media’s Podcast Network the ‘Manosphere’ for Women?

Dear Media, a podcast company known for chatty celebrity and lifestyle shows, is also tapping into women’s interest in alternative health.
Is Dear Media’s Podcast Network the ‘Manosphere’ for Women?

Dear Media, a podcast company known for chatty celebrity and lifestyle shows, is also tapping into women’s interest in alternative health.
Trump’s Return to Power Elevates Ever Fringier Conspiracy Theories

At every level of government, authority figures are embracing once-extreme ideas, including that the Earth is flat or that the state controls the weather.