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Mark Humphries debunks 5G conspiracy theories for Telstra

Telstra is debunking conspiracy theories about 5G, including the myth that it caused COVID-19, with help from comedian Mark Humphries.

Humphries and Telstra’s Electromagnetic Energy (EME) expert Mike Wood put in their two cents about the theories, making it clear that “viruses cannot travel on radio waves or mobile networks” because “if they could, someone would have weaponised Smooth FM years ago”.

The content series is set to appear across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube, in a direct effort to counter the misinformation about 5G that has been spread on the platforms. In the series, Humphries makes reference to this, comparing Facebook to the Dark Web, and making light of the cliched middle-aged relatives sharing fake news on social media.

The series will also cover off conspiracy theories surrounding the testing process 5G has undergone, that 5G will damage DNA and the environment and that a particular USB stick will protect against the network.

A Telstra spokesperson told Mumbrella that they were aware the campaign would not convince everyone, but hope it will make a difference to the community.

“We know after years of extensive research there’s no substance to the myths and conspiracy theories about 5G that are bouncing around on social media,” they said.

“We’ve created this new series, which is backed by science, to take a light-hearted approach to debunking the myths that are out there.”

“We know we won’t convince everyone – but this series about talking directly to our customers and the community and using humour and satire to help challenge misguided beliefs about science.”

The series was produced in-house. The Monkeys are Telstra’s creative agency of record.

The trailer for the series can be seen below:

Credits

Telstra In-House Creative & Production
Campaign Strategist: Nick Chin
Creative Director: Nads Spencer
Director: Sven Mueller
Production manager: Melanie Stefanou
Director of Photography: Patrick Harris
Art Director: Kendra McCarthy

Talent: Mark Humphries
Writer: Evan Williams

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