The truth behind information on social networks
Nowadays, social platforms are a constant source of information about our surroundings. However, we cannot always take everything we see on them as true. Recently, Infoveritas has debunked a false rumor about a scam that has been widely circulated.
The origin of the confusion on Twitter
The misunderstanding began following a message posted by a user on X, formerly known as Twitter. Although the post had a humorous tone, some people took it literally.
The publication that generated a stir
The publication in question said: “We have been victims of the famous HORREO SCAM; you think you buy a house and in reality they sell you the granary. The police have come to evaluate, but they have already warned us that it is IMPOSSIBLE TO RECOVER THE MONEY.”
He continues saying: “And they are 80% of those that advertise in ASTURIAS. We return to Madrid.” Along with the text, two images were shared that contributed to the confusion.
The images that led to confusion
One of the photos shows a house near a granary, and the other a Civil Guard agent. Although it seems truthful, this scam is just a joke, since the publication was made in an ironic tone.
In reality, the first photo is from the Casa Rural La Collada in Asturias, while the second is from a hideout where ETA held Ortega Lara captive. This has been confirmed by Infoveritas.
Infoveritas confirms the falsehood of the granary scam
To verify the facts, Infoveritas conducted a Google search on the ‘granary scam’. They did not find relevant information about said scam, except for the publication in X.
By investigating the images, their origin can be determined. The first belongs to the aforementioned rural house and the second is from the ETA headquarters, an image that has circulated since 2010.
Although it’s all a joke, many people have believed it. User comments were immediate.
User reactions on social networks
Some of the comments were: “Buying a house from a catalog without seeing it in person either you have a lot of money or you are very naive,” said one user. “But is it the one in the photo on the left? Because if so, and the scammer lives there,” added another. “I was moving into the granary tomorrow to have a good time during the summer,” someone else added.
The situation shows that not everything that circulates on social networks should be taken as absolute truth. Infoveritas has fulfilled its task of informing and clearing up doubts about this specific case.