INTERNET HOAX EXPERT FLOODED WITH TERRORIST RUMORS

INTERNET HOAX EXPERT FLOODED WITH TERRORIST RUMORS

SAN FRANCISCO (Wireless Flash) – An expert on internet hoaxes says the terrorist attacks are fueling more rumors than he can keep up with. David Emery – who debunks rumors for About.com – says since the attack he’s been getting five times more e-mail from tipsters who are helping him scope out internet misinformation. One popular rumor floating around right now urges folks to boycott IHOP restaurant because employees were supposedly seen cheering after the attack. For the record, it’s not true. Neither is the one that claims NASA has organized a cross-country candlelight vigil tonight and plans to take a picture of the glowing candles from outer space with satellite cameras. Emery thinks the tragedy has led to the spread of so many hoaxes because sharing information about the attack is one way of dealing with the horror of it.

Wed 09-19-01