The Cost of
Misinformation
Real cases showing the financial and reputational damage
caused by unchecked misinformation.
Spotify criticized for COVID misinformation on Joe Rogan podcast
Major reputational damage and a ~12% drop in Spotify’s share price in one week (about $4 billion lost). Sparked intense debate about content moderation and free expression on tech platforms.
This American Life apologizes for airing false story about Apple factory
Loss of public trust and credibility for both 'This American Life' and Mike Daisey, highlighting the vulnerability of even reputable media outlets to fabricated stories when fact-checking fails.
Brexit campaign misled public with false £350 million NHS claim
Widespread public misunderstanding of UK-EU finances, long-term distrust of political messaging, and criticism of media for failing to correct the claim in real time.
The Dr. Oz Show and questionable medical claims
Long-term reputational damage to Dr. Oz and the show, plus increased skepticism toward televised medical advice. Some featured products became the subject of FTC action and settlements.
DirecTV drops OAN over false election claims
Severe financial loss-OAN lost access to up to 15 million homes and about 90% of its revenue. The settlements and loss of reach threatened the network’s financial future.
Senator Johnson falsely claims mouthwash can stop COVID
Reputational risk for Johnson & Johnson, negative media attention for both the senator and the brand, and public confusion about COVID-19 prevention.
Diary of a CEO podcast criticized for spreading health misinformation
Major criticism from health professionals and regulators, negative press, and advertising bans for undisclosed conflicts of interest.
Fox News pays $787 million for spreading false election claims
A record-setting $787.5 million financial settlement, major reputational and legal fallout for Fox News, and wider scrutiny of misinformation in mainstream media.
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OnJamie provides real-time fact-checking to help you catch misinformation before it goes live.