misinformation
The wrong information, often given on purpose to cloud the recipient's understanding of a topic.

**see also Disinformation
Mary knows that shy Bob likes Ann, who secretly likes Bob back. Mary likes Bob too. Bob asks Mary about her friend Ann's relationship status. Mary gives misinformation to Bob by saying she's not exactly sure if Ann is still seeing her old boyfriend. Mary knows Bob will be too shy now to clarify Ann's status with her directly.

See also Disinformation.