Search
Search
Published: April 6, 2020 | Source: DCMS | Author: Mark Campbell

Idiots vandalise critical UK infrastructure over baseless 5G COVID-19 claims

Idiots vandalise critical UK infrastructure over baseless 5G COVID-19 claims

Idiots vandalise critical UK infrastructure over baseless 5G COVID-19 claims

If you’ve been on social media recently, then you’ve probably seen someone claim that 5G networking equipment has helped to spread COVID-19 across the UK and the globe. Let’s start by repeating the words of the UK’s Cabinet Office minister, Michael Gove, by saying that these claims are “dangerous nonsense”. Furthermore, let’s echo what was said by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) by saying that there “is absolutely no credible evidence of a link between 5G and coronavirus”.

We are disappointed to inform you that some amongst the UK’s population have decided to take matters into their own hands, with reported fires at networking masts in Birmingham, Liverpool and Melling in Merseyside. Vandals are attempting to destroy critical networking infrastructure at a time where online communications are more critical than ever. Worse still is the fact that they are ignoring the UK’s lockdown, placing themselves and their families at increased risk. 

Millions of people within the UK rely on this networking infrastructure to stay connected during this period of self-isolation. Actions against the UK’s mobile and broadband infrastructure has so far prevented maintenance from taking place, repairs being made promptly and network upgrades from being rolled out. At a time where these services are more critical than ever, we must do what we can to prevent the spread of disinformation. 

Below is a post from the DCMS, which hopes to set the record straight when it comes to 5G’s connections with Coronavirus. In summary, the only link between 5G and Coronavirus is those in the minds of conspiracy theorists. 

The UK’s leading mobile networking companies, Vodaphone, EE, O2, and Three have taken a united front and have posted the following message to social media, highlighting how essential their services are during this tough time. 

When speaking to the BBC, Stephen Powis, the medical director of NHS England, said that he was “absolutely outraged and disgusted that people would be taking action against the infrastructure we need to tackle this emergency.” 

Coronavirus is a global issue, impacting nations with and without 5G equally. The lack of 5G networking in nations like Japan and Iran hasn’t slowed or prevented the virus’ spread. 

Right now, we recommend that you take the advice of your local government regarding Coronavirus. The latest information for the UK is available to read at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus. 

You can join the discussion over vandals taking out their Coronavirus concerns on critical UK infrastructure on the OC3D Forums. 

Latest News