Background
After a car crashed into pedestrians in a crosswalk in Long Beach, rumors of a terrorist attack began to circulate on social media. Despite the police denying any connection to terrorism, conspiracy theorists and right-wing extremists continued to speculate online.
The Crash and Investigation
The driver, Khalid Yagobbi, was charged with murder after driving through a red light and hitting pedestrians and occupied vehicles. One woman was killed in the crash. Yagobbi, who was working as an Uber driver, pleaded not guilty to vehicular manslaughter. He has since been charged with murder and other felony counts.
Police Denounce Misinformation
The Long Beach Police Department took to social media to denounce the spread of misinformation regarding the crash. They emphasized that there was no gag order on the case and stated that the incident was not connected to terrorism or the violence in the Middle East.
The Role of Disinformation
During times of conflict or war, disinformation tends to proliferate. Emotions run high, and people are more likely to share information that aligns with their beliefs without verifying it. Disinformation not only creates confusion and anxiety but can also lead to public panic, harm reputations, and incite violence.
The Spread of Disinformation on Social Media
Disinformation is pervasive across all major social media platforms. People turn to social media for information, particularly in an information-poor environment. However, social media allows lies and nonsense to be easily self-published, often even before the truth is established. The prevalence of disinformation varies depending on the platform’s user demographics, algorithms, and features.
The Need for Critical Evaluation
Social media users are advised to critically evaluate information before sharing it. Comparing information to multiple reputable sources and official statements from authoritative bodies is essential. It is crucial to remember that social media should be seen as a form of entertainment rather than a reliable source of information.
