Social Media Scolding over Boston Marathon

It seems that false reporting over social media sites is becoming a reoccurring trend. Like my professors continually preach, "Always check your facts." It seems that the media need to be refreshed on this simple rule.

According to Mashable, the Federal Bureau of Investigation scolded several media outlets in a statement Wednesday afternoon in response to the false reports being circulated that an arrest had been made in the investigation of Monday's Boston Marathon bombings. 

"Over the past day and a half, there have been a number of press reports based on information from unofficial sources that has been inaccurate," reads the FBI's unusual report. "Since these stories often have unintended consequences, we ask the media, particularly at this early stage of the investigation, to exercise caution and attempt to verify information through appropriate official channels before reporting."

The race to be first is hurting news organizations' accuracy and trust levels. A crisis can come at any moment. As an aspiring PR professional, I know that I need to be ready for the worst at any given time. However hectic the crisis may become, it is never okay to post public information without checking your facts. Credibility is essential in the media and communication industry. 

Ben Dimiero @bendimiero
The last hour of CNN: Suspect ID'd. Arrest imminent. Arrest made. Confirmed arrest made. Wait, maybe no arrest. Confirmed arrest not made.

2:36 PM - 17 Apr 2013

72 RETWEETS 13 FAVORITES

What news organizations do you still hold credible? Let us know! 

Social Media’s Growing Role in Crises

Monday’s terrible and startling Boston Marathon bombings undoubtedly put the nation in a state of shock. Among the fear and utter devastation in the wake of the event, social media has allowed for stories of inspiration and true compassion to emerge.

During the height Monday’s events, certain groups and individuals used social media to their fullest advantage with one shared goal: helping those in need.

The Boston Police Department did an excellent job keeping the public and the media up to speed on what was happening. Among the many rumors and false tweets that circulated, they constantly set the record straight.  

Just hours after the bombing, The American Red Cross tweeted the following, showing how quickly people had responded to help:

Another inspirational moment came when a Google Doc began circulating via Twitter. The document was created by Boston residents who had space to offer up in their homes for those affected by the bombings. Soon after, the document grew to include thousands of listings. Take a look at the document here. 

Finally, one of the most moving tweets of the day came from the NBC Sports Network. If you need a small reminder that there is still good in the world, read this tweet and remember it:

Did you see any other inspirational posts on social media? Be sure to share them with us.