Crossword Genius

The FBI are confused by this deception (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fib

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'this deception' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'the fbi are confused' is the wordplay.
'are confused' is an anagram indicator.
'fbi' anagrammed gives 'FIB'.

'by' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for fib that I've seen before include "Small lie" , "Petty falsehood" , "Story" , "minor piece of fiction" , "Trivial lie" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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