Separating fact from fiction in the Hong Kong protests: Part 2

As the Hong Kong protests move into their sixth day, we examine the truth behind some of the claims being made online, and look at some of the pictures and videos spreading on social media...

Claim 1: Chinese hackers are targeting Hong Kong protesters' iPhones

Quite possibly

A computer virus known as Xsser is targeting Apple's iOS operating system on the iPhones and iPads of protesters in Hong Kong, according to Reuters. The high quality of the malware has led researchers to believe it could be coming from a sophisticated attacker in China.

Claim 2: These may be the politest protests ever

Claim 5: China body-searched 10,000 pigeons for 'dangerous materials'

Bizarrely, true

According the the Associated Press, 10,000 pigeons released as part of the National Day celebrations in Beijing were subject to extra scrutiny with the government feeling wary of attacks following the recent protests in Hong Kong and unrest in its western Xinjiang province.

Claim 6: A Nokia 3310 thwarted a tear gas bullet

Possibly

Owing to the Nokia 3310's cult status, images of one of the handsets impaled with a mini tear gas canister/bullet have been spreading on Twitter, Facebook and Reddit. However, despite some of the claims made, commenters have suggested that people were simply playing around with the phone and the photo is set up. (Plus, everyone knows a Nokia 3310 wouldn't break like that).

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