Cover-up
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A 
cover-up is an attempt, whether successful or not, to 
conceal evidence of wrong-doing, error, incompetence or other 
embarrassing information. The expression is usually applied to people in 
authority who abuse their power to avoid or silence 
criticism. Those who cover up (or their allies) may be responsible for a misdeed or wish to silence criticism.
While the terms are often used interchangeably, 
cover-up involves withholding incriminatory evidence, while 
whitewash involves releasing misleading evidence.
[edit] Modern Usage