The Independent highlights the ongoing issue of misinformation in local Facebook community groups across the UK, as identified by Full Fact. Following a previous investigation, hoaxes concerning alarming events, like stabbings and injured dogs, persist, with 47 communities affected as of February 2023. These deceptive posts often modify into unrelated content after gaining attention. The article emphasizes the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity and transparency in the face of widespread misinformation, underlining The Independent's commitment to accessible reporting amid critical social issues.
Hoax posts about serial killers, stabbings, injured dogs, and other alarming stories are still rife in local Facebook community groups, 18 months after a major Full Fact investigation.
Our investigation into this problem found hoax posts inundating community Facebook groups across the UK with stories about alarming events supposedly taking place in the local area.
Once hoax posts had generated engagement, the author would often edit the post, changing it into something completely different, such as a survey or advert.
Full Fact has identified at least 47 communities across the UK affected by hoaxes in February, from big cities to small towns.
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