In the wake of the Al Haouz earthquake, a flurry of misleading information has surfaced, potentially sowing confusion during this critical period.
In times of crisis, the dissemination of accurate and reliable information becomes paramount for informed decision-making and community support.
Here is a compilation of the primary instances of fake news that have been circulating amidst the aftermath of the earthquake:
- False evacuation alert with Hespress logo
A fake image, using Hespress branding, falsely advises Moroccans to leave their homes due to expected earthquakes on Saturday evening.
Security authorities are investigating the source of the deceptive image and will take legal action against those responsible.
The creators of this counterfeit image exploit the popularity of Hespress as an esteemed online news source, for undisclosed motives, to spread unfounded information.
- Fake videos of Casablanca buildings collapsing
One video, seemingly showing a building collapse with people scrambling for safety, has been debunked. World Times, a news outlet, posted the same video on Twitter, verifying it as fake and recorded three years ago in Casablanca.
- False photos of ruined ports and ships
Images depicting damaged port facilities and overturned ships are circulating online, but they are not from the Al Haouz earthquake. These pictures are from foreign port facilities and past natural disasters, such as the 2011 earthquake on the Pacific coast of Tōhoku, Japan.
- Misleading tweets about hospital capacity
Some tweets from foreign media outlets claim that earthquake victims in Al Haouz were lying on the floor at hospital entrances due to overcrowding. This is untrue. Marrakech’s hospitals are operating at full capacity but have not reached saturation. They are still accepting injured individuals with the support of local authorities.
- Incorrect image of cement barricades in Marrakech
A widely circulated image shows cement barricades in Marrakech, allegedly erected following the Al Haouz earthquake. However, this photo was originally published on September 6, two days before the earthquake occurred.
- Baseless claims about Ouahat Sidi Brahim rescue efforts
Contrary to social media posts saying that no aid has been given in Ouahat Sidi Brahim,, local authorities confirm that they have been taking all necessary actions since the earthquake struck. Rescue operations are ongoing, and a comprehensive rescue plan has been put in place for Ouahat Sidi Brahim.
- False reports of collapsed homes in Rabat
Images circulating on social media suggest collapsed homes in Rabat. However, these photos are misleading, as local authorities have confirmed that there have been no reports of partial or total collapses in the capital.
- Misreporting on Ronaldo’s hotel opening for Moroccan earthquake survivors
There have been circulating reports suggesting that Cristiano Ronaldo has opened his four-star hotel in Marrakesh to offer support to earthquake survivors. These reports are primarily sourced from an article in Marca. However, it’s important to note that Marca’s article features a statement from a Spanish national, and there is no mention of Moroccan earthquake survivors receiving free accommodation at the hotel.
How can I report about someone posting a video with fake news about another earthquake last night in Chichaoua?