Every scandal begins with a gap between public image and private action. In the modern era, this often takes the form of systemic failure or personal hypocrisy.

: Some of the most devastating scandals aren't about one person's lie, but a machine’s error. The UK Post Office scandal is a prime example, where faulty software led to the wrongful prosecution of hundreds of sub-postmasters over two decades.

In a digital society, a scandal is no longer local. It spreads through "viral videos" and "social media leaks" that disrupt the lives of everyone involved.