Fact-finding refers to the intentional distortion, misrepresentation, or alteration of factual information to serve a particular agenda, perspective, or narrative. This can occur in a variety of forms, such as in news articles, social media posts, speeches, or other means of communication.
The evaluation as "Manipulation of facts" is given to those media reports that use facts known to be correct, but interpret them in a distorted way. These reports typically use inaccurate information to draw inaccurate conclusions or claims, thereby misdirecting consumers' conclusions of media content in relation to the actual meaning of the facts presented.
Some common techniques used in manipulating facts include:
Cherry picking (choosing convenient facts): Selectively choosing only a few facts or data that support a particular argument or point of view, ignoring or omitting contradictory information. E.g. Vučić and Petković's claims about the impossibility of Kosovo Police operating in the north. (here)
Quotation or misuse: Changing or misrepresenting quotes or attributions to deceive or misinform readers or viewers. E.g. A video was published on the internet claiming that LDK MP Driton Selmanaj said that "ALBIN KURTI KNOWS BETTER TO SPEAK SERBIAN THAN ALBANIAN". After research, it was found that Selmanaj said that "Kurti is giving more interviews in Serbian than Albanian."". (here)
Out of context: Presenting factual information without providing the necessary context or background, which may distort the true meaning or implications of the information. E.g. A video sequence is circulating on the internet claiming that Albin Kurti has previously stated that "the most monstrous crimes have been committed by Albanians." After verifying the facts, it is seen that the video has been edited and the statement has been taken out of context.here)
Exaggeration or hyperbole: The use of exaggerated or hyperbolic language to sensationalize or distort the significance of facts, often to evoke emotional responses. E.g. A photograph from the interior of the "Adem Jashari" Airport has been published on the internet, showing a large influx of citizens, claiming that hundreds of migrants are leaving Kosovo. (here)
Fabrication: Creating completely false or fictional information and presenting it as fact, which may mislead readers or viewers into believing something that is not true. For example, Serbian-language media have fabricated the fact that the elderly woman physically abused in a nursing home in Peja, who appears in the published video material, is from the Serbian community. (here)
Manipulated images: Altering images or videos, such as through photo editing or video editing, to create a false impression or narrative. For example, an old photograph of a church mass is presented as an image of veiled Albanian Muslim women.system. (here)
One-sided framing: Presenting facts in a biased manner to promote a particular perspective or agenda, while minimizing or ignoring opposing views. E.g. Prime Minister Albin Kurti's recent statements to international media appear to have been misinterpreted by Petar Petkovic, describing them as "waving weapons and a call to war." Kurti tells Reuters that: "The possibility of new tensions and conflicts arising cannot be ruled out," a statement that leaves no room for interpretations made by Petkovic. (here)
Manipulating facts can have serious consequences, as it can contribute to the spread of misinformation, erode trust in reliable sources of information, and distort public perception of important issues or events. It is important to critically evaluate information, seek out multiple sources, and fact-check claims to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the information presented.