Frequency of Deception

Frequency of Deception/Radiofrecuencia de engaños is an in-depth investigative series into misinformation and disinformation on Spanish-language radio in the United States. This series was produced by Feet in 2 Worlds in partnership with WNYC’s Notes from America, palabra and Puente News Collaborative.

About the investigation

For the past two years, Feet in 2 Worlds has conducted an in-depth investigation into misinformation and disinformation on Spanish-language radio in the United States. The project, in partnership with WNYC’s Notes from America, palabra and Puente News Collaborative, examines who is behind false and misleading information and how it impacts Latino communities across the U.S. and threatens democracy.

At a time when Spanish-language journalism is often underfunded and news deserts proliferate, misinformers can easily fill the void. This ultimately impacts the ability of Latino voters to make informed decisions at the ballot box — and has repercussions beyond elections, influencing conversations about society, politics and everyday life.

Our reporting covers the operations of local radio stations and radio networks, as well as radio hosts, and foreign broadcasters that regularly spread mis- and disinformation to Spanish-speaking audiences in the U.S. and Latin America. We also highlight those working to identify and combat false information aimed at Latinos — including journalists, community organizers, fact checkers, academic researchers and broadcasters.

Through this series, we aim to show how information travels throughout Latino diasporic communities, and we explore how culturally specific misinformation can take hold among populations with connections to a range of Latin American nations including Mexico, Cuba, Venezuela, Colombia and others. We also provide practical advice and resources in Spanish and English to radio listeners and news consumers who want to make sure that the information they receive is truthful and trustworthy.

While our story focuses on stakeholders in local communities including Miami, FL and Las Vegas, NV, the broader implications are national. We believe our reporting is especially significant as we approach the 2024 election.