China Pushed Panic-Inducing COVID-19 Disinfo In U.S., Officials Allege

Chinese operatives are reportedly spreading COVID-19 misinformation in the US to create political discord, adopting tactics similar to Russia's. They have been linked to rumors about a national quarantine under the Stafford Act, which were debunked by the National Security Council. While China may not have created these messages, they amplified them as lockdown debates intensified. Social media platforms, particularly Facebook, have been affected by these posts, with some event pages being removed. However, experts like Paul Barrett suggest that these efforts may not be sufficient due to concerns about backlash from content proponents.

What is the primary goal of Chinese operatives spreading misinformation about COVID-19 in the US?

• To promote public health awareness

• To sow political discord

• To support US government policies

• To increase tourism to China

Which country's disinformation tactics is China reportedly adopting?

• Germany

• India

• Brazil

• Russia

What false claim did Chinese operatives help spread regarding President Trump?

• He would ban social media

• He would invoke the Stafford Act for a national quarantine

• He would increase taxes

• He would resign from office

How did the National Security Council respond to the misinformation about the Stafford Act?

• They confirmed the rumors

• They supported the rumors

• They ignored the rumors

• They debunked the rumors

What challenge do social media companies face in dealing with misinformation?

• Insufficient funding

• Fear of backlash from content proponents

• Lack of technology

• Government restrictions