Italy: Local authorities issue warnings regarding fake news and fraud

Authorities in Italy are issuing warnings to citizens regarding different types of misinformation and fraudulent activities.

In Mazara del Vallo, officials have debunked a fake weather alert circulating in private chats. The fraudulent message, falsely attributed to Mayor Salvatore Quinci, claimed a tornado warning was in effect for specific areas of the city, including Tonnarella and San Vito. Officials urge residents to rely solely on official communications from the Municipality and Civil Protection to avoid unnecessary alarm.

In San Mauro Cilento, the municipal administration has issued an urgent alert regarding scammers impersonating Carabinieri officers. The perpetrators use phone calls or in-person visits, claiming to conduct administrative or judicial checks to gain entry into homes and steal cash or valuables. Residents are advised not to let strangers into their homes, even if they wear uniforms, and to call 112 to verify the identity of any official.