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SCMP Hong Kong Series

SCMP Fact-Check

In this new series, SCMP Fact-Check, the Post investigates claims circulating online and debunks viral misinformation impacting the daily lives of Hongkongers. Seen something suspicious online? Tell us on [email protected].

Updated: 18 Apr, 2026

Illustration: Victor Sanjinez

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[1]

Fact-Check | This video of ‘Iran capturing US pilot’ was filmed in Pakistan

The conflict in the Middle East has led to videos being shared out of context by social media users.

16 Apr, 2026

A screenshot showing scenes from a video falsely claiming to show a US pilot captured by Iran, with lines drawn through by the SCMP. Photo: Handout/SCMP

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[2]

Fact-Check | This photo of Hong Kong firefighter saving cat predates Tai Po fire

While pets were among those saved from the deadly fire, this photo does not show scenes from Wang Fuk Court.

11 Dec, 2025

A screenshot of the post with lines drawn through by the Post. Photo: Instagram/SCMP Composite

[3]

Fact-Check | Firefighters in Hong Kong? This video was shot in Chile in 2024

An old video is being misrepresented online as Hong Kong authorities battling deadly blaze in Tai Po.

01 Dec, 2025

Screenshot of the misleading Facebook reel with lines drawn through by the Post. Photo: Facebook/SCMP Composite

[4]

Fact-Check | AI-generated scenes ‘from France’s 2025 Louvre heist’ circulate in Hong Kong

Fabricated videos of museum break-in shared by internet users in the city.

17 Nov, 2025

A screenshot of different points in the Facebook reel showing the two fabricated videos of the heist. Photo: Facebook/SCMP Composite

[5]

Fact-Check | This video does not show Hongkonger knocked over during Super Typhoon Ragasa

Footage of a woman struggling in intense winds is falsely linked to the typhoon that hit Hong Kong this year.

09 Oct, 2025

A screenshot from a video inaccurately linked to Super Typhoon Ragasa in Hong Kong. Photo: Facebook/SCMP composite

[6]

Fact-Check | ‘Videos from Hong Kong’s 2025 rainstorm’ actually show downpour in 2023

Some clips purportedly from August’s extreme weather have been online for almost two years.

26 Aug, 2025

A screenshot of the two reels side by side with lines drawn by the Post. Photo: Facebook/SCMP Composite

[7]

Fact-Check | This photo predates July fire on Air India plane leaving Hong Kong

Image showing smoke billowing from plane was used in recent reports by India, Hong Kong media outlets.

07 Aug, 2025

[8]

Fact-Check | This video does not show Hongkongers struggling in Typhoon Wipha winds

One Facebook post that contains the misleading claim has racked up more than 21 million views.

31 Jul, 2025

A screenshot of the video posted on Facebook with lines crossed through by the Post. Photo: Facebook/SCMP Composite

[9]

Fact-Check | This video shows Hong Kong airport, not Air India flight that crashed in June

Clip that circulated online falsely claimed to show scenes from the plane.

22 Jul, 2025

[10]

Fact-Check | ‘SCMP report’ claiming Hongkongers ‘will receive income from taxes’ is fake

A website claiming to promote a trading platform uses fabricated Post article to push hoax.

18 Jul, 2025