Investigation by fact checkers reveals “tip of the iceberg” of risk posed by hoax posts in Facebook community groups

31 Aug 2023 | Thank you
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Last week our research into a concerning influx of hoax posts in local Facebook community groups ([link removed]) got national media attention. The investigation, led by fact checker Tony Thompson, was covered in the Guardian ([link removed]) , Sky News ([link removed]) , Mail Online ([link removed]) and on BBC radio, among others.

Over the last few months, the investigation identified at least 1,200 examples of hoax posts, across at least 115 local areas in the UK, and this is likely just the tip of the iceberg.

Some of these hoaxes appear designed to terrify local communities, and sow needless fear and confusion. While others—after gaining lots of attention for their initial content—are being edited to instead display financial offers specifically targeting those in the UK.

What we’re doing about it

The impact and scale of these hoaxes and the edited posts they are often replaced by is extremely concerning. We have written to Meta, Facebook’s parent company, to raise the alarm about this issue, stressing that “the risks posed by these posts are pernicious and frequent enough to merit stronger action from Meta in terms of proactively identifying and tackling this growing trend”. We will update you when we hear back from Meta.

What you can do about it

In the meantime, here are some tips so that you can spot hoax posts and to help you stay safe online: Seven ways to spot if a Facebook post is a hoax. ([link removed])

Thank you for your support,

Thom Callan-Riley—Community Manager
Full Fact

This work was made possible by our donors. Please help Full Fact expose hoax posts and protect social media users by giving today.
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