Police Warning To Social Media Users

10 August 2011, 13:55 | Updated: 10 August 2011, 14:27

Cambridgeshire Police say people who use social media "should not believe everything they read online".

The force says it has had a number of calls following messages people have seen on Twitter.

These have turned out to be nothing but rumours and speculation.

Detective Superintendent Gary Ridgway said: "We would urge people not to believe everything they read on social media sites – unless it from an official police feed. 

There are a number of unhelpful postings and rumours that are simply untrue.  

We are also actively pursuing anyone we believe to be using social networking sites to incite violence and disorder.

Young people are particularly being reminded of the risks of committing serious criminal offences with items they post on social networking sites.

Det Supt Ridgway added:  "We continue to monitor the situation across the county – as well as other parts of the country, and are committed to keeping the people of Cambridgeshire as informed as possible through our official channels.

I would urge anyone concerned about issues in their area to keep an eye on our Twitter feeds @cambscops and @suptpaul, for the latest information and updates."

Meanwhile Police are thanking residents of Peterborough for "remaining calm after untrue rumours of disorder in the city".

Extra officers were sent out to patrol the city last night but there were no reports of disorder or of damage to property.

Deputy Divisional Commander, Superintendent Paul Fullwood, said: "Plans remain in place in response to disorders in London and other cities, however there is no information to suggest a threat in Peterborough.

Patrols were increased in the city and we are continuing to allocate extra resources.

We are encouraging residents to continue going about their lives as usual and are working with our partners and community leaders to address any concerns.

Anyone who uses the current national issues as an excuse to commit crime will feel the full force of the law.

We would like to thank the community for their continued calm and support of officers working to keep the city safe."