A deceptive tactic is a strategy used to mislead or manipulate someone in order to gain an advantage. Common examples of deceptive tactics include PLOY, RUSE, SUBTERFUGE, FEINT, and SMEAR. A PLOY is a clever plan or trick used to deceive someone. A RUSE is a deceptive maneuver or trick used to gain an advantage. SUBTERFUGE is a deceptive strategy used to hide one's true intentions. A FEINT is a deceptive move made to distract or mislead an opponent. SMEAR is a false accusation or malicious misrepresentation of someone or something.