In February 2017, 5G was introduced to the world. 5G represents the fifth generation of wireless communications technology and is three times faster than the previous generation of 4G. The introduction of 5G was a big step forward for humanity, as achieving 5G was the key to developing new technologies such as self-driving cars and is also a key aspect in the rise of IoT devices. Advances in technology should always be celebrated and encouraged, yet due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, the opposite is happening.

Many conspiracy theories have arisen related to 5G. Many people around the world are starting to believe that the radiation emitted from 5G communication masts, such as the one shown above, are responsible for COVID-19. In the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Cyprus, people are attempting to take down these 5G masts, even taking violent measures. Mobile UK, a telecommunications company in the United Kingdom, has reported over fifty attacks on their masts this year.

https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-52370616

In reality, there is no proof that 5G radiation causes COVID-19. It has been proven that COVID-19 is a virus and not an illness that comes from radiation exposure. Furthermore, top scientists from across the world believe COVID-19 comes from animals such as bats or pangolins.

This sort of misinformation is deadly in dire times such as now. When everyone is prone to panic, spreading conspiracy theories will do nothing but cause harm. Besides, times of panic also brings out predators. People will try to lure us into believing their false ideas and take advantage of our fear. This 5G conspiracy theory is a great example of this. People are luring us into believing their phony ideas, and this has done nothing to help anybody, but rather caused more chaos and panic in society. We must remember to stay united and use our logic to survive this crisis rather than believing everything we hear.

황채린 강남포스트 학생기자  webmaster@ignnews.kr

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