Debunking is a reactive intervention that retrospectively targets a concrete instance of misinformation.

Research broadly finds that direct corrections are effective in reducing — although fre- quently not eliminating — reliance on the misinformation in a person’s reasoning. The beneficial effects of debunking can last several weeks, although the effects can wear off quicker.

Debunking is a valuable tool to address specific pieces of Misinformation and largely reduces Misinformation belief. However, Debunking will not eliminate the influence of Misinformation on people’s reasoning at a group level. Furthermore, even well-designed Debunking interventions might not have long-lasting effects, thus requiring repeated intervention.