Fringe groups around the world have voiced concerns about the impact of 5G and other wireless technologies since 5G started being deployed, but misinformed conspiracy theorists have jumped to a new level recently by attributing the Coronavirus spread to 5G. Experts worldwide have repeatedly confirmed that there is NO health risk associated with 5G, but the conspiracy theories abound. Incorrect claims about 5G have been spreading around the internet, even leading to cellphone towers being attacked in the UK.
Social media giants Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube have now updated policies and issued statements indicating they will take action to reduce the spread of the inflammatory conspiracy theories. In a statement to USA TODAY, Facebook said that they are “taking aggressive steps to stop misinformation and harmful content from spreading on our platforms and connect people to accurate information about Coronavirus.” Twitter echoed the sentiment, adding that they will take action on accounts that post “content in relation to unverifiable claims which incite social unrest, widespread panic or large-scale disorder.” YouTube did not promise to remove 5G conspiracy theory videos, but they confirmed their commitment to reducing their visibility, saying: “we’re committed to providing timely and helpful information at this critical time, including raising authoritative content, reducing the spread of harmful misinformation.”