Misinformation About COVID-19 and Confidential Information Leakage: Impacts on the Psychological Well-being of Indians

Abstract

: Misinformation, in most cases, is the reconfigured content using basic tools. Fake information related to casualties, infections, contacts, lockdowns, investments, exam schedules, and immigration, leads to confusion, fears, phobophobia, discrimination, harassment, physical injuries, deaths, financial damages, reputational losses, and many more long-lasting side effects. Objective: The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the many ways in which misinformation and information leakage related to COVID-19 can influence the stakeholders, such that it gives policymakers and citizens a greater understanding of both direct and indirect risks and harms when assessing the challenges their countries are facing. Methods: An extensive literature review was done on the prevalence of the COVID-19 related misinformation and its associated significant psychological, reputational, physical, and societal implications on Indians. The novel and possible approaches to fight against the misinformation are described.