Fact Check: "The image shared on Facebook on June 2, 2023, was actually taken on December 4, 2015, as confirmed by EuroVerify."
What We Know
On June 2, 2023, a Facebook post featuring an image of Mount Etna erupting garnered significant attention, amassing over 72,000 likes. The image was shared by an account named Travel Wonders. However, a reverse image search conducted by EuroVerify revealed that this image was not recent but rather matched other photographs taken on December 4, 2015, from a location just meters away from where the recent eruption occurred (Yahoo News, Euronews). This finding indicates that the image circulating on social media was misrepresented as being from the June 2023 eruption.
Analysis
The claim that the image shared on Facebook was taken on December 4, 2015, is substantiated by credible sources. EuroVerify's reverse image search is a reliable method for verifying the authenticity of images, especially in the context of social media where misinformation can spread rapidly. The fact that the image has appeared in multiple academic reports further strengthens its credibility as being from 2015 (Yahoo News).
Moreover, the context surrounding the image's circulation is important. The eruption of Mount Etna on June 2, 2023, led to a surge of interest and confusion online, with many users questioning the authenticity of various videos and images related to the event. This environment of skepticism, fueled by the prevalence of AI-generated content, has made it easier for old images to be misattributed as current (Euronews).
The sources used in this analysis are reputable, with Yahoo News and Euronews being established news organizations known for their journalistic standards. Their reporting on the matter is thorough and backed by investigative methods, such as reverse image searches, which add to the reliability of the information presented.
Conclusion
The claim that the image shared on Facebook on June 2, 2023, was actually taken on December 4, 2015, is True. The evidence provided by EuroVerify and corroborated by multiple news outlets confirms that the image is indeed from 2015 and has no connection to the recent eruption. This serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying information before sharing, especially in an era where misinformation can easily proliferate.
