If you’re reading this because you or your family have been targeted by online misinformation, please know that what you’re experiencing is real, it’s not your fault, and help is available.
The Real Impact of Digital Lies
Recently, we supported a local family whose innocent day out at the park was turned into a nightmare when their video was stolen, altered, and spread across social media with completely false accusations. What started as a happy family moment became a campaign of harassment that left them afraid to leave their home.
This case shows us something important: online misinformation isn’t just about fake news stories – it can destroy real people’s lives in very real ways.
The family we supported experienced:
- Threats and intimidation both online and in their neighbourhood
- Damage to professional reputation and career
- Fear for their physical safety
- Isolation and psychological distress
- Impact extending to family members in other countries
You Are Not Alone
If this sounds familiar, if you’re living through something similar, please know:
This is not your fault. You did nothing wrong by sharing a moment of your life online, by existing in a public space, or by being who you are.
Your fear is valid. When lies about you spread online, the anxiety and terror you feel are completely understandable responses to a genuine threat to your safety and reputation.
The impact is real. Online harassment has real-world consequences – on your mental health, your family, your work and your sense of safety in your own community.
What Can You Do?
Immediate Steps
- Document everything – take screenshots of posts, messages and threats before they might be deleted
- Report to platforms – most social media sites have policies against harassment and misinformation
- Contact police – especially if you’ve received direct threats or experienced in-person harassment
- Reach out for support – you don’t have to face this alone
Protecting Your Wellbeing
- Limit your exposure – consider taking breaks from social media or asking trusted friends to monitor mentions of you
- Tell people you trust – let family, friends, employers and neighbours know what’s happening so they can support you
- Look after your mental health – this kind of harassment can be deeply traumatic
How VCAS Can Help
At Victim Care and Advice Service, we understand that being targeted by online misinformation is a form of victimisation that can have devastating consequences. We provide:
- Emotional support from trained advisors who understand what you’re going through
- Practical guidance on documenting evidence and reporting to authorities
- Safety planning to help protect you and your family
- Advocacy support when dealing with police, employers, or other agencies
- Referrals to specialist services including legal advice and counselling
Speaking Out Against Digital Hate
As Dave Mead, our Cleveland manager, said about this recent case: “Something is fundamentally wrong when images of an enjoyable family day out can be stolen, manipulated and used to hurt and provoke hate.”
We all have a role in challenging online misinformation and supporting those who are targeted. When we see false information being spread, when we witness harassment campaigns, we can choose not to share, to report harmful content and to speak up for truth.
Getting Support
If you’re experiencing online harassment or misinformation:
Call VCAS on: 0303 040 1099
Email us at: info@vcas.uk
Visit our website at: https://vcas.uk/
You can also contact us if you’re supporting someone else going through this experience – family members and friends are affected too and we’re here to help you as well.
Remember
Your story matters. Your safety matters. Your wellbeing matters.
Online misinformation thrives in silence, but it cannot survive in the light of truth and community support. By reaching out for help, by sharing your experience, by refusing to suffer in silence, you’re taking back power from those who seek to harm you.
You are not alone and this will not define you.
VCAS provides free, confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime across Cleveland. Our services are available regardless of whether you’ve reported to police. Contact us today – we’re here to help.
