Cognitive Scaffold

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MENTAL MODEL · M1934

Sockpuppet

Sockpuppet
CollaborateHigh supportCommunication Studies
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Refers to a fake account registered by the same person in an online community to conceal their true identity. Uses include: fabricating public opinion to support oneself, attacking opponents, or creating the illusion of debate.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Beware of false consensus. When you see overwhelming praise or attacks online, realize that this may just be countless 'puppets' (Sockpuppets) manipulated by one person, not genuine public voices.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

Sockpuppet/astroturfing accounts refer to fake identities registered by the same user to disguise as multiple independent individuals, used to create false consensus, inflate numbers, or evade bans. It manipulates the trust premise of 'multiple independent sources'.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

  • link
    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sock_puppetZH · Explicit
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