China allegedly sent fake messages to Americans.

There is insufficient evidence to prove that fake text messages were sent by China to spread panic among Americans.

There is insufficient evidence to prove that fake text messages were sent by China to spread panic among Americans.A document by U.S. Congress said that China was spreading of misinformation to downplay the risks of the virus in the early stages of the COVID–19 outbreak.

Whereas, an article published by the New York Times said the U.S. intelligence officials assessed that Chinese operatives helped push the messages across platforms to create panic among the American public. It said the origin of the messages remained murky and the American officials declined to reveal details of the intelligence linking with China. Also, the article was based on interviews with six American officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.

However, both the sources did not provide any concrete proof to pinpoint that the Chinese were responsible for spreading the fake messages.

The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a lot of potentially dangerous misinformation. For reliable advice on COVID-19 including symptoms, prevention and available treatment, please refer to the World Health Organisation or your national healthcare authority.