Facebook has stated that it’s been taking steps to stop false claims linking the coronavirus to 5G technology. However, numerous businesses on Facebook are spreading that conspiracy theory to promote products that supposedly protect users from 5G.
5G is the fifth generation of mobile technology that’s being rolled out across the world. In a report on 5G coronavirus conspiracy theories, the BBC wrote that “scientists say the idea of a connection between Covid-19 and 5G is ‘complete rubbish’ and biologically impossible.”
That fact hasn’t stopped people from falsely claiming that 5G technology can either transmit the virus to them or make people more susceptible to catching it. The New York Times noted that the conspiracy theory has been gaining “momentum in Facebook groups, WhatsApp messages and YouTube videos.” In Britain, there have been numerous incidents of arson and vandalism against 5G towers and telecom technicians have been harassed.
Outlets (including Media Matters) have documented problems with coronavirus misinformation on Facebook, including posts linking the virus to 5G. The company stated in early April: “Under our existing policies against harmful misinformation, we are starting to remove false claims which link COVID-19 to 5G technology and could lead to physical harm. We will continue to work closely with governments and other tech companies to remove harmful misinformation and have partnered with health authorities like the WHO and NHS to connect people to the latest official guidance.”
But as Media Matters similarly found with businesses on Facebook pushing fake coronavirus treatments and cures, the company’s efforts to remove such harmful misinformation aren’t complete. Here are five examples of businesses that are selling supposed 5G protection products by linking the technology to the coronavirus.
Update (5/7/20): Following the publication of this article, several of the Facebook posts mentioned are no longer available. The removed posts are noted below.
BioElectric Shield Co.
BioElectric Shield Co. is a Montana-based company that sells “EMF & personal energy protection products.” Its Facebook page promotes its products with the hashtags “coronavirus,” “covid,” and “5gnetwork.” It also promotes a post on its site claiming that 5G may weaken a person’s immune system and leave them more susceptible to contracting COVID-19 and, as a result, people should consider buying its products.
Update (5/7/20): The Federal Trade Commission sent a letter to BioElectric Shield Co. stating that the company has been “unlawfully advertising that certain products prevent Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).” The letter was sent on April 27 -- before the publication of this article -- and was announced by the FTC on May 7.
