Spreading Lies About You Online

Someone creates and spreads false stories about you across social media, forums, or other platforms — damaging your reputation with fabricated claims.

What You Might Notice

People start treating you differently based on things they've read
Friends, colleagues, or community members reference false claims.
You discover false posts or articles about you online
Fabricated stories appear on social media, blogs, or forums.
The false narrative is consistent and coordinated
The same lies appear across multiple platforms or from multiple accounts.

What You Can Do

This is not an exhaustive list. Every situation is different — use what applies to yours.

Document all instances of the false narrative
Screenshot each post, note the platform, date, and URL.
Report defamatory content to platforms
Most platforms prohibit false and harmful content about individuals.
Consider legal advice about defamation
Persistent false narratives may constitute defamation.
Don't engage in public arguments about the false claims
Responding can amplify the narrative. Focus on removal and documentation.

ID: SAFE-T-0108

Sub-techniques: No sub-techniques

Tactic: Information Manipulation

Created: 04 February 2026

Last Modified: 07 March 2026

Important: Always consider your physical safety first.

This resource provides general information, not personal advice. Every situation is different. The actions suggested here may not be safe in your specific circumstances particularly if the person causing harm could notice changes to your devices or accounts.

If you need personalised support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or your local specialist domestic violence service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.

This framework is under active development. View full limitations & methodology.

False Narrative Campaigns

Systematically spreading false information about victim to their social network, workplace, community, or online audiences. False narratives may portray victim as unstable, abusive, dishonest, or dangerous, serving to isolate victim from support, preemptively discredit their accounts of abuse, and build sympathy for perpetrator.

ID: SAFE-T-0108

Sub-techniques: No sub-techniques

Tactic: Information Manipulation

Created: 04 February 2026

Last Modified: 07 March 2026

Mitigations

ID	Mitigation
SAFE-M-0100	Counter-Narrative Development Develop response strategy with support services. Share truth selectively with key contacts.
SAFE-M-0101	False Claim Documentation Document each false claim with evidence contradicting it for legal proceedings.

Detection Indicators

ID	Detection Indicator
SAFE-D-0089	Unexplained Relationship Changes Contacts becoming distant without clear reason based on adversary communications.
SAFE-D-0090	False Information Reports Trusted individuals report false information being shared by adversary.

The TFA Matrix is a research framework under active development. Technique classifications, detection methods, and mitigations reflect current understanding and are subject to revision. This framework does not constitute forensic methodology, legal evidence standards, or clinical diagnostic criteria. Practitioners should apply professional judgement appropriate to their discipline and jurisdiction.

Full limitations, methodology & responsible use statement.