So when did jumping on Google pass for actual scientific research? And why has a tsunami of disinformation exploded during the pandemic?
We've all heard of them, and we might even know someone who's gone down the rabbit hole of disinformation.
They might claim things like the vaccine is experimental - while ignoring the fact that 4.9 billion people worldwide have received it.
But how does it start? And why does it work? Sociologist and Emeritus Professor Paul Spoonley specialises in social change.
He talks to Lisa Owen.
