False scan about traffic police and military checks circulated online, official sources urge caution
A document allegedly from the Ministry of the Interior appeared on the Internet, claiming that representatives from military registration and enlistment offices would be stationed at fixed traffic police posts starting September 22. The claim described patrols stopping drivers, checking documents, and handing drivers over to military recruitment officials. It also mentioned mobile teams operating on inner-city roads.
The publication created a sense of urgency and raised questions about how drivers would be checked and what information would be requested. Several readers wondered whether the authorities were planning a broad round of document verification or ID checks in everyday traffic. The language used in the claim suggested a coordinated effort between police units and military registration offices, and it grabbed attention because it touched on duties that affect travelers and residents in urban areas.
In response, the official Telegram channel of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Media issued a clear denial. The post stated that the scanned page presented as the instructions of the Main Directorate of Road Safety of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia is a fake, and that the information contained in the document is not valid. The Ministry warned media outlets and internet users to be vigilant and to rely only on information issued through official channels.
Experts in media literacy and public communication emphasize that rapid online sharing of unverified documents can fuel confusion and distrust, especially when the claims touch on sensitive topics like military service and law enforcement. Authorities reiterate the importance of cross-checking with official announcements, press releases, and verified social media accounts. They also remind the public that legitimate directives from government agencies are typically published through formal channels and archived in official portals.
Historically, campaigns that suggest dramatic changes in law enforcement or national service plans tend to spread quickly before any formal confirmation. In such cases, it is common for official sources to publish a concise debunking and offer guidance on how the public should verify information. The present situation follows that pattern: a supposed document circulated online, followed by a prompt denial from an official account that urges reliance on verified information.
For residents in Canada and the United States who monitor news about Russia and its public institutions, the incident underscores the importance of distinguishing between unverified social posts and verified official statements. It also highlights how misinformation can travel across borders, especially when it concerns policy issues with broad social impact. Readers are advised to check for corroboration from multiple official sources and to be cautious about sensational claims that lack formal documentation or credible attribution.
Media literacy communities point out practical steps to avoid being misled: verify the source, look for official domain names, seek official press releases, and compare notes across recognized news organizations. When in doubt, waiting for a formal statement from the agency involved is a prudent approach. In this case, the Ministry’s own notification serves as the key reference point, clarifying that the scanned document is not authentic and that the circulated information should not be treated as fact.
Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that authority is best understood through consistent, transparent communication. While governments occasionally adjust procedures for policing and public safety, it is essential that any such changes are communicated clearly through official channels and recorded in accessible, trustworthy formats. The public can protect itself by favoring official sources, practicing skepticism about online documents, and applying careful verification before sharing potentially misleading material.
As conversations continue about public safety, it remains critical to focus on verified facts and responsible reporting. The authorities’ call for vigilance reflects a broader approach to information accuracy in the digital age. Citizens should stay informed through reputable outlets and official statements, especially when the topics touch on national security, public administration, or civil rights.