The Al-generated image falsely depicting Orlando West High School in Soweto on fire. Picture: Johannesburg Emergency Services. A dangerous prank using an artificial intelligence (AI) generated image of Orlando West High School has raised concerns about AI platforms spreading misinformation and panic.
The City of Johannesburg Emergency Services said it has noted with serious concern the circulation of the AI-generated image falsely depicting Orlando West High School in Soweto as being on fire. Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson Kagiso Phasha, following the circulation of the image and related reports, immediately launched an investigation to verify its authenticity. “EMS can confirm that Orlando West High School was not on fire, and no fire incident was reported to or recorded by the City’s Command and Control Centre.” Phasha said the incident has been regarded as a “dangerous and irresponsible prank.” “The creation and sharing of false emergency-related content, including AI-generated images, causes unnecessary panic, spreads misinformation, and results in the waste of critical emergency resources that are intended to respond to genuine life-threatening emergencies.
“The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services strongly condemns such actions and warns that the spreading of false information may have serious consequences, including possible legal implications,” Kagiso Phasha said. Phasha urged residents to act responsibly and refrain from sharing unverified or manipulated content. During an emergency, residents must contact the City’s Command and Control Centre on 011 375 5911. “The City remains committed to protecting communities and ensuring that emergency resources are available where they are genuinely needed,” Phasha said.
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