Many Lebanese citizens have been receiving fabricated calls or messages urging them to evacuate their homes, causing widespread panic. These messages closely resemble real Israeli threats that are often followed by airstrikes or attacks.
In this context, technology and communications consultant, engineer Amer Tabsh, explained to Houna Lubnan* that "genuine calls from the Israeli Army contain precise information. A person will speak in Arabic, even in the Lebanese dialect, identifying the caller’s address and the number of people present in the house, and will indicate that their home will be targeted. The caller might even respond to questions."
Tabsh clarified that "this warning can come via a message or a call, and recently, the Israeli Army has been relying more on direct calls after a large number of fake messages caused people to question their authenticity."
He pointed out the need to carefully examine these messages, as most are false, and by reading them closely, we can detect grammatical errors.
Tabsh noted that "there is a clear breach, and the numbers could originate from inside Lebanon or abroad. What's important is the content of the call, not the number itself. The call could be from a person speaking Arabic or could be pre-recorded."
He added, "The Israeli Army also plays on fear by making calls from fake foreign numbers, threatening individuals with attacks if they are found supporting or aiding Hezbollah. These calls reach people in different areas to spread panic and prompt people to force anyone linked to Hezbollah to leave."
Tabsh mentioned that "the calls received in downtown Beirut yesterday aimed to spread fear and confusion, creating an unsettling atmosphere, and were part of Israeli propaganda."
He also explained that "Lebanon's Information Division acts quickly to track fake calls made by individuals. The division has advanced capabilities that allow them to get results quickly. When they can’t trace the source, it's because the call is fake."
He added, "Regarding the messages that are sent through platforms selling bulk messages, 'Alfa' and 'Touch' should contact these platforms and track the individuals responsible."
Tabsh emphasized that "when the information is documented and accurate, the call is legitimate. However, when the information is vague and imprecise, these threats are not new, even if they come from the Israeli Army. Their purpose is to incite panic."
He warned of similar calls potentially targeting school principals with the return to education, which would cause a lot of disruption.
Tabsh urged people to immediately contact security forces if they receive such a call or message.
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