Police issue warning over 'misinformation' amid reports of filming in playparks

Police Scotland said it is aware of concerns on social media about filming around playparks – but that people should not “speculate” or share “misinformation”.

Officers charged two men in connection with an alleged breach of the peace in Paisley after being called to reports of men acting suspiciously at around 4.45pm at Barshaw Park on Sunday.

In another incident, said to be unconnected, a man has been charged in connection with an alleged breach of the peace following concerns raised in Rutherglen.

Officers say they have also investigated a “small number” of unconnected reports of filming, in which these have been found to be parents filming their own children or other individuals who were not filming children and no criminality was established.

Police Scotland said it takes reports seriously and will investigate any matters reported.

However, the force urged members of the public not to share speculation or inaccurate information and to “think twice” about what they read, share and believe from online sources.

Assistant chief constable Catriona Paton said: “Given concerns about filming, I would ask people to remind anyone videoing or photographing in public to respect those around them.

“Police officers balance the rights of people to film with the potential to cause fear or alarm and make decisions based on individual circumstances.

“I would encourage responsible use of social media and ask people not to share speculation or inaccurate information.

“Please think twice about what you read, share and believe from online sources.

“It is not illegal to take photographs or video footage in public places unless it is for criminal purposes.”