Online rumor. Photo: VCG

Recently, multiple incidents of fabricated police reports, designed with white text on a blue background, have emerged online. From "reports" of an unusual odor in the tap water in the Yuhang District of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, a few days ago, to a Sunday traffic accident in Kunming, Yunnan Province, these fake "police reports" have sparked widespread online discussion. 

This new form of rumor-spreading has two key characteristics. First, it specifically targets public safety incidents, generating panic among the public to drive web traffic. Second, the creators mimic official reports, posing as official sources and "revealing" sensational details. This method is more harmful than ordinary online rumors. Not only does it sow widespread fear, but it also exploits the public's natural trust in the "blue-background, white-text" format - especially among those who are unaware of the truth.

The fabrication of "blue-background, white-text" reports must be met with severe punishment. For media and the public: Whenever you encounter especially "explosive news," stay extra vigilant to avoid being exploited by malicious actors. For relevant authorities: in high-profile public incidents, promptly respond to the public's right to know by issuing official statements - leaving no room or time for rumors to take root. For judicial bodies: this novel form of rumor-mongering designed to grab attention must be punished according to the law to set the record straight.