In business competition, some unethical companies or individuals may use various strategies to spread false rumors to weaken the reputation of their opponents. Here are some common methods: 1. **Media manipulation**: Buying or manipulating the media to publish false reports and negatively report on competitors. 2. **Cyberattack**: Creating fake accounts on social media platforms to publish and spread rumors in an attempt to influence public opinion. 3. **Fake reviews**: Posting negative reviews on online review platforms to influence the reputation of competitors. 4. **Fake communications**: Sending forged emails or communications, impersonating competitors, and publishing false information. 5. **Leaking confidential information**: Spreading false "leaked" information, claiming to come from inside competitors, to influence their public image. 6. **Hiring a third party**: Using a public relations company or individual to conduct deliberate negative publicity. 7. **Shadow campaigning**: Creating false consumer complaints or legal proceedings to attract negative attention. This strategy is often unethical and legally risky, and may violate commercial competition laws and defamation laws. If exposed, it may not only lead to serious legal consequences, but also have a negative impact on the reputation of your own company.