Astroturfing, the term used to describe marketing campaigns that are camouflaged as activism, is becoming more prevalent. That’s why “Last Week Tonight” host John Oliver is urging viewers to watch out for it, and offers a few tips on how to identify who or what is behind what can often look like genuine grassroot movements.

Watch the full clip in the video player above.

Posted by Natasha Hakimi Zapata

Your support is crucial…

With an uncertain future and a new administration casting doubt on press freedoms, the danger is clear: The truth is at risk.

Now is the time to give. Your tax-deductible support allows us to dig deeper, delivering fearless investigative reporting and analysis that exposes what’s really happening — without compromise.

Stand with our courageous journalists. Donate today to protect a free press, uphold democracy and unearth untold stories.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG