Spain: Police warn of fake terror attack alerts on social media

Event

Media sources reported on May 29 that Spanish police have alerted the public to multiple falsified alerts warning of a terrorist attack in Madrid that have been spread on social media in recent days. One undated version of the hoax, which continues to be shared, claims there is an imminent attack that will target Madrid's metro system during Ramadan. Another claims to come from police officials in San Blas district - the document includes a fake police stamp and signature - and warns against potential attacks on soft targets (crowded areas like bars, nightclubs, etc.), saying that a suicide bombing or vehicle attack is highly likely. The latter includes an obvious spelling mistake, a common indication of a fabricated document or a hoax.

Police officials have stressed that a terrorism attack warning would never be disseminated through social media in this manner; warnings would be published on the ministry of the interior website and given to the media for dispersal.

Context

The Spanish terrorist threat level is currently assessed at four (on a scale of one to five). The current threat level, declared in June 2015, indicates a "high risk" of a terrorist attack.

Advice

Individuals in Spain are advised to monitor the situation via reliable media sources. Due to the prevailing threat of terrorism, remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.