Spurious correlation, the deceptive causal relationship

Spurious correlation occurs when two elements change together, even if they don't directly affect each other. 

The correlation might exist because these two elements are both affected but the same factor. 

People who spend an inordinate amount of time on the internet tend to have higher levels of depression and anxiety. Internet use and depression might seem correlated, but loneliness, social isolation, or acute public anxiety may influence both, internet use and the depressed state of the users.

Some countries tend to have more engineers, doctors, or university graduates. It does not mean that they have superior education systems. The higher numbers may be due to their large population.

Understanding spurious correlation is important for taking the right decision and accurately interpreting data. 

Being aware of the difference between correlation and causation prevents us from reaching incorrect conclusions.

Noticing a correlation alone is not sufficient to conclude that one variable causes the other.