‘Paid Promotion’: Delhi Police Slam ‘Missing Girls’ Panic Online
Paid Promotion’: Delhi Police Slam ‘Missing Girls’ Panic Going Viral on Social Media
The Delhi Police on Friday dismissed viral social media posts claiming a surge in ‘missing girls’ cases, calling them misleading and part of a paid promotion campaign. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid spreading unverified information that could create unnecessary panic.
Delhi Police Respond to Viral Claims
Social Media Posts Trigger Panic
Over the past few days, several posts and videos circulating on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp claimed that a large number of girls were going missing in Delhi. These posts sparked fear among parents and residents, leading to widespread concern.
Police Call Claims ‘Misleading’
Responding to the viral content, Delhi Police clarified that the posts were not based on verified data. Officials said the claims were exaggerated and misleading, aimed at attracting views and engagement rather than informing the public.
‘Paid Promotion’ Behind Viral Posts, Say Police
Content Created for Reach and Monetisation
According to Delhi Police, many of the viral posts were part of paid promotional activity, created to increase social media reach and monetisation. Authorities noted that such content often uses emotional language to go viral quickly.
No Sudden Spike in Missing Girls Cases
Police officials stated that there has been no abnormal rise in missing girls cases in the capital. They added that all genuine missing persons complaints are registered and investigated promptly, following standard procedures.
Warning Against Spreading Misinformation
Public Urged to Verify Information
Delhi Police urged people to verify information through official sources before sharing posts online. They warned that spreading unverified content could lead to panic and misinformation.
Legal Action May Follow
Officials cautioned that legal action may be taken against individuals or pages found deliberately spreading false information or misleading content on social media.
How Delhi Police Handle Missing Person Cases
Immediate Registration of Complaints
Police clarified that every missing person complaint, especially involving minors, is treated seriously and registered without delay.
Use of Technology and Inter-State Coordination
Authorities said they use CCTV analysis, call detail records, and coordination with other states to trace missing persons quickly.
Public Reaction and Online Debate
Mixed Response on Social Media
While some users welcomed the police clarification, others continued to share the posts, highlighting the challenge of controlling misinformation online.
Experts Call for Digital Responsibility
Cyber experts have stressed the need for responsible social media use, warning that viral misinformation can undermine public trust and create fear.
Conclusion
The Delhi Police clarification on the viral ‘missing girls’ posts highlights the growing problem of misinformation and paid promotions on social media. Authorities have reiterated that there is no verified data supporting claims of a sudden rise in such cases and have appealed to citizens to rely only on official information. The episode serves as a reminder of the importance of digital responsibility in an era of viral content.
