Typology of viral misinformation content during the first months of the COVID-19 health emergency in Peru

Abstract

This study includes a content analysis of viral disinformation (N=80) since the first COVID-19 case confirmed and during the mandatory quarantine in Peru (March 6th, 2020 - June 30th, 2020), that were identified by fact-checkers and public entities. The study adapts a typology for information disorders: exaggeration, decontextualization, deception, false alerts and frauds, and highlights their main characteristics. The investigation reveals that WhatsApp was the principal platform used for disseminating hoaxes, in addition to multiple social networks. Misinformation stories are mainly photos or text, and the contents were related to the health crisis, the economic bonus for vulnerable families, pandemic restrictions, and health myths. In addition, the study shows a useful guide for professionals working on fact-checking.