Attention, a false press release is currently circulating on social networks! He announces temporary restrictions on Internet access supposedly imposed by the Minister of the Interior, in a context of urban violence.
Perhaps you have seen a press release on social networks entitled “Reinforced security following the riots” ? Signed by “General Directorate of the National Police”it presents the “new measures in force to prevent disturbances to public order” and affirms that “temporary restrictions will be applied to internet access in specific neighborhoods during nighttime hours”in order to “prevent the misuse of social networks and online platforms”. A news widely circulated on Facebook and Twitter during this weekend and which worried more than one. Rest assured, this is fake news! The Ministry of the Interior reacted quickly by declaring that “this document is a fake” and that’“no decision has been made in this regard”. The National Police Information and Communication Service (Sicop) also agreed: “We would like to inform you that we have not written a press release announcing temporary restrictions on Internet access in certain neighborhoods. This is fake news.” Of course they call not to spread this false information.
Internet shutdown: one of the most credible fake news
“Starting July 3 and for a fixed period, temporary restrictions will be applied to internet access in certain specific neighborhoods during nighttime hours. These restrictions aim to prevent the misuse of social networks and online platforms for coordinate illegal actions and incite violence”, can we read on the false document. This one, for more credibility, includes the official logo, as well as the so-called “contact details” of the General Directorate of the National Police.
Some Internet users have found the information credible because of recent statements by the Government. Indeed, in the context of the riots following the death of Nahel, killed by a policeman, Emmanuel Macron pointed the finger at social networks – in particular Snapchat and TikTok –, judging that they “play a considerable role in the movements of the last days”. He also called for their “spirit of responsibility” regarding the massive sharing of photos and videos of the clashes and looting on their platforms, asking them to remove the content “the most sensitive”.