Smoke screens are often used to conceal or obscure reality with a layer of misleading information. Synonyms for this term include "decoys," "red herrings," and "false flags," all of which are commonly used expressly to mislead. These terms often imply a deliberate intent to misguide and miscommunicate, and are often used in politics, propaganda, or espionage. Other synonyms for smoke screens include "camouflage," "veils," and "slight of hand," all of which suggest a purposeful attempt to disguise reality for personal or political gain. In essence, these synonyms all suggest that the truth is being distorted and manipulated to serve someone else's agenda.