Over the past week we have seen social media users spreading rumours and speculation about far-right protests - sharing unattributed screenshots of callouts, or even just forwarded messages - without any corroborating evidence that the purported threat amounts to anything.
It is important to try and avoid propagating rumours. While it often feels vital to share information, especially in the wake of riots when there are counter mobilisations happening, spreading unevidenced rumours can misidentify the nature of the fascist threat in particular areas.
When sharing information on far-right demonstrations it is important that claims are evidenced. Investigations and research can never be perfect, everyone makes mistakes. But we can minimise those mistakes by asking ourselves certain questions about pieces of evidence.
When evaluating far-right threats, consider:
- Is there a source provided/where has the information come from?
- How detailed is the information? e.g. if it’s a call-out for a protest does it have a meeting time, place or further instructions, or is it just a vague suggestion?
- Who has it been shared by? Are they individuals or groups known for far-right aggression?
- Where has it been shared? e.g. public or closed groups? Have those channels been linked to previous aggression?
- How much traction has it received on social media and on Telegram channels and Whatsapp groups?
- Is there a history of far-right agitation in the area/around this specific issue?
- Are multiple call-outs/graphics promoting the same protest circulating simultaneously?
If you see some information that you think we’d be interested in, and you’ve run through the checklist above, feel free to send it to us via our email [email protected].
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