The posting goes on to state, “Even if caught, they’re typically judged by outside observers significantly less harshly than if they'd lied outright.” There are eight meanings detailed in OED's entry to the verb palter, 5 of which happen to be labelled out of date. See ‘Which means & use’ https://riverzehkn.bimmwiki.com/10280562/the_greatest_guide_to_holzspalter