A recent incident in Chestermere shows the power of social media is not always a good thing.

On Sunday, June 10, police were called after a man was seen making what was described as a "hand gesture" at a couple of kids playing in their back yard.

The two kids got scared and told their parents, who in turn phoned police, who immediately started looking for the man.

Video surveillance showed the man wearing a dark hoodie, which was not out of the ordinary given the cold, wet weather, walking along a pathway, who police say wasn't doing anything suspicious otherwise.

However, significant social media activity was generated with comments warning the public about an attempted abduction, which police say was never the case, as the man didn't attempt to approach the two kids, or even leave the pathway.

Mounties have investigated the complaint and didn't identify any safety concerns.

But were quick to say, if there ever are any concerns they will advise the public.

 

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