Beds Police urge caution over social media posts

Following a spate of recent social media posts regarding suspicious activity involving children, Bedfordshire Police are concerned that unverified posts are causing distress to parents.

While often well-intentioned, the posts may be seen by some as scaremongering.

They have addressed the dramatic rise in social media posts on their own Facebook page and reiterated that they are acting on concerns.

They have also stepped up patrols to provide reassurance.

The statement on the Bedfordshire Police Facebook group said, “We understand the concern that this type of activity causes and it is important to share messaging around child safety, [however] social media posts of this nature can also cause distress across our communities.”

Any incidents of suspicious activity should be reported to the police via their online reporting tool or by calling 101.

“We are aware that there are a lot of social posts circulating regarding suspicious activity involving children.

“We are acting on these concerns and will continue to step up patrols as a precaution and to provide reassurance,” continued the statement.

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