The Lower Austria State Police Department warned on Sunday about false reports on social networks.
For many users, social networks are a source of information for the latest news. However, there are also a large number of false reports in these networks that spread extremely quickly and cause uncertainty among the population.
There was recently wild speculation about a police operation at a school in the Pressbaum area.
The fact is that a male person from outside the school was noticed in the area of a school and was said to have behaved suspiciously. Based on a complaint, several police officers carried out an inspection of the school and the school's surroundings.
During this review, neither a criminal offense nor the slightest level of danger could be determined.
Nevertheless, there was still wild speculation on social media. There was also wild speculation the next day, ranging from a high school graduation joke to a terrorist attack and a hostage-taking at school in which the Cobra task force was active, which triggered another police operation. Here too, it quickly became apparent that these rumors were all untrue.
The police take all reports seriously and immediately take the necessary, proportionate measures.
All of these rumors naturally caused massive uncertainty among the students at the affected school, their parents and the general public.
How can you recognize false reports?
Just because something is on the internet doesn't mean it's the truth! In social networks, fake news (fictional news) and rumors are often spread specifically to unsettle readers or create a mood. Therefore, consider whether to share or forward the content.
Be skeptical and question the content critically. Sensitive wording and drastic images can be the first indication of false reports.
Check the sources. Think about who is behind the report and question the author's motivation and goals. Check whether there are other trustworthy sources with the same information/statements.
There are already numerous international studies and corresponding websites on the subject of false reports on the Internet where you can find detailed information.
Press release from June 24, 2018, 7:43 a.m
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