Be cautious when sharing security news, it may be fake, says Fidelity ADT

The spreading of fake news, especially relating to security issues, on social media sites and via Whatsapp groups is becoming a concern, said Linda Goodenough, community development manager for Fidelity ADT.

“We are seeing more and more fake news items hitting the likes of Facebook, Twitter and Whatsapp.

“These items often fuel the agenda of an individual or group and promote fearmongering based on false information.

“By forwarding the information you are promoting fake news,” she said.

And when it comes to security-related fake news the effects are all the more harmful.

“Criminals are often behind security-related fake news items.

“Their objective is to promote their agenda, whatever that may be.

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“It can lead to wasted resources.

“The police and security companies may respond to a particular fake news item claiming an incident has happened, for example, while criminals target another area,” she said.

Goodenough said it’s so important to verify any information you receive before forwarding it.

It is also important to watch what photographs you post.

Posting a photo of an alleged suspect could result in that case being thrown out of court at a later date.

“If in doubt as to the legitimacy of the information, don’t share it.

“Information can be verified through the police or other security authorities.

“We all need to be responsible when it comes to rumour spreading especially relating to safety and security.

“Let’s work together, involve those that know, and check things first.

“Otherwise we could be the responsible for igniting fires where there are no fires at all,” she said.

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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za or Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za.

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