ReclaimTheFacts presents manual on disinformation

(CONNECT) The ReclaimTheFacts association is publishing the new "Handbook of Disinformation". According to a press release, the book takes a preventative approach. The book is a practical reference work that describes 33 common disinformation techniques and shows how you can protect yourself against them.

Teaching the techniques should act like an inoculation, it continues. Studies have shown that people who are familiar with the mechanisms of disinformation are significantly less susceptible to its effects. Those who are familiar with the 33 methods described are better protected against deliberate deception, i.e. they are virtually immunized.

The handbook is published by ReclaimTheFacts, which was founded as an initiative in 2020 and will be registered as an association based in Dietikon from 2023. It explains how the respective manipulation techniques work, documents historical and current examples and offers practical assistance for dealing with disinformation.

The "Voices on the book" by Council of States member Damian Müller (FDP) and National Councillor Balthasar Glättli (Greens) show that the topic is also a cross-party political issue, the report continues. Both emphasize the need for clear tools against disinformation in order to strengthen democracy and public discourse. The book makes an important contribution to a fact-based, informed debate in times of targeted manipulation.

The project was made possible by the support of Mr. Campaigning AG, Axpo Services AG, Academia Group, dok-kommunikation+coaching and Swisscom. It can now be downloaded free of charge. ce/gba