Mixed methods: discourse analysis of 500 Telegram messages (2024–2025) + semi-structured interviews with 15 former alternative health group members.
This paper introduces the neologism “quackcrep” — a portmanteau of “quack” (medical fraud) and “crep” (from crepuscular , meaning active at twilight or deceptive half-visibility). We define quackcrep as the gradual, low-visibility spread of pseudo-expertise through social media micro-influencers. Using a qualitative case study approach, we analyze three emergent behaviors. Findings suggest quackcrep operates below traditional debunking thresholds.
The rise of wellness influencers has outpaced regulatory frameworks. While “quackery” implies overt fraud, a subtler phenomenon — quackcrep — remains under-theorized.
