Facebook Bans Users From Sharing Debunked ‘Plandemic’ Movie

TOPLINE

Facebook has restricted users from sharing the link to the full-length Plandemic movie, which promotes a widely debunked conspiracy theory that claims Dr. Anthony Fauci was responsible for the creation of the coronavirus strain that has caused a worldwide pandemic, as the social media platform ramps up efforts to combat misinformation on its site after years of taking a more hands-off approach. 

KEY FACTS

Facebook and YouTube did not immediately respond to Forbes’ request for comment. 

Key background

Plandemic is based on the claims of discredited scientist Judy Mikovits, who says that doctors, including Fauci, and the rich and powerful, are behind the spread of the virus. The film also claims that masks are harmful. “I believe Dr. Anthony Fauci has manufactured the coronavirus in monkey cell lines and shipped them — and paid for them — to be shipped to Wuhan, China,” Mikovits said during an interview with Bolling. Her claims have been thoroughly discredited by multiple scientists and experts. 

Big number

2.5 million. The number of interactions on Facebook for the Plandemic trailer less than two weeks after it was first posted. Facebook’s groups feature allowed the film to spread like wildfire. 

Crucial quote

Kevin Roose, a tech columnist for the New York Times, pointed out on Twitter that Facebook  and other platforms had time to prepare for Plandemic — Indoctrination because the debut date was announced online. Typically, conspiracy theories spread undetected before they explode in popularity. 

Further reading

Facebook and other companies are removing viral ‘Plandemic’ conspiracy video (Washington Post)

Sinclair Delays Broadcast Of ‘Plandemic’ Interview; Host Promises Better ‘Context’ (Forbes)