Myths about 5G
Myths and conspiracy theories regarding the safety of 5G (many of which link 5G to the spread of Covid-19) have been spread online. In some cases this has lead to the destruction of 5G equipment and intimidation of telecoms workers.
There is no scientific basis or credible evidence for these claims, which have been rejected by the World Health Organisation and independent fact-checking charity Full Fact.
UK mobile network operators EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone have also issued a joint statement on the matter:
"Not only are these claims baseless, they are harmful for the people and businesses that rely on the continuity of our services. They have also led to the abuse of our engineers and, in some cases, prevented essential network maintenance taking place."
Mobile UK, MNO Statement: Protecting our critical infrastructure
Ofcom have produced the following guidance which explains, in detail, why claims linking 5G to Covid-19 are false, and additionally, why our nation's telecoms infrastructure is vital to the ways we are all working to fight the spread of Covid-19 and save lives.
"If a mobile phone mast stops working, either because it has been vandalised or because engineers can’t repair and maintain the network, this undermines people's ability to call emergency services, dial the NHS on 111, or contact friends or family."
Ofcom, Cleaning up the myths around 5G and the coronavirus
These myths and conspiracies are often spread through social media. Before you share, like, or comment on content linking 5G to Covid-19, and potentially spread false information further, run through the Share checklist to make sure that the information is legitimate.
Sharechecklist.gov.uk, Share Checklist
Gov.uk, Guidance: 5G and coronavirus (Covid-19)