What to Do When You See an ICE Rumor Online
Rumors about ICE raids and immigration enforcement can spread quickly online and cause unnecessary fear, missed work or school, and real harm to families and neighborhoods. In moments of uncertainty, sharing unverified information can escalate panic rather than protect people. This guide explains how to slow the spread of rumors, verify claims responsibly, and document observed activity safely—so communities stay informed without creating fear.
Why ICE Rumors Cause Real Harm
False or exaggerated alerts about immigration enforcement can lead people to avoid hospitals, schools, houses of worship, or local businesses. Even well-intentioned posts can have serious consequences when they turn out to be inaccurate. In multiple instances, alarming claims circulated widely only to be contradicted hours later by firsthand accounts showing no enforcement action had occurred.
Responsible information-sharing protects vulnerable neighbors and ensures that real alerts are taken seriously when they matter.
Pause Before Sharing
When you see a post claiming an ICE raid, sweep, or “disappearance”:
- Stop before reposting or forwarding.
- Be cautious of urgent, emotional language meant to trigger immediate sharing.
- Ask whether the post includes a verifiable source, not just hearsay or screenshots.
Check Reliable Sources
Before accepting or amplifying a claim, look for confirmation from:
- Local government or emergency alert systems
- Reputable local or national news outlets
- Established legal aid or immigrant rights organizations
If no credible source confirms the information, treat it as unverified.
When You Witness Activity: Use the SALUTE Method
If you believe you are observing possible ICE activity in real time, focus on documenting facts rather than broadcasting speculation. A commonly used documentation tool is the SALUTE method, which helps observers record accurate details safely and responsibly.
SALUTE stands for:
- S — Size: Number of agents and vehicles present
- A — Activity: What they are doing (e.g., approaching a building, speaking with someone)
- L — Location: Exact address, intersection, or identifiable landmark
- U — Uniform: Agency markings, badges, vests, or vehicle identifiers
- T — Time: When the activity began and when you observed it
- E — Equipment: Vehicles, tools, dogs, or visible weapons
This information is most useful when shared with trusted legal or immigrant-rights organizations, not posted publicly in ways that may cause panic or spread misinformation.
Safety and Legal Considerations
- Only document from a safe distance and do not interfere with operations.
- Filming law enforcement in public spaces is generally legal in the U.S., but avoid private property and comply with reasonable safety-related instructions.
- Your safety and the safety of others always come first.
How to Respond Without Spreading Fear
Do:
- Ask for sources
- Share verified information
- Encourage calm verification
Don’t:
- Amplify unverified claims
- Add speculation or assumptions
- Present rumors as confirmed facts
If a post is clearly false and causing alarm, consider reporting it to the platform as misinformation.
Promote Community Standards for Accuracy
Communities are safest when information is shared carefully and responsibly. Encouraging verification, documentation, and restraint helps prevent unnecessary fear while preserving the ability to respond quickly when real issues arise.
SALUTE is a reminder: observe carefully, document responsibly, and share thoughtfully.
