An example of a phony post.
New Hampshire authorities say they are not behind an apparent social media spamming campaign.
WHAV’s Facebook page has received such comments as “much love new hampshire!,” “respect new hampshire” and “I love new hampshire!,” accompanied by photographs of state tourism features and maps. The spammers names are listed as “Alisha Francis,” “Britta Cristina,” “Elisha Culthi,” “Bobbye Martin” and others. Similar comments were found on the Eagle-Tribune newspaper’s website. Readers are advised not to click on any links.
Kris Neilsen, communications manager, for New Hampshire’s Division of Travel and Tourism Development, told WHAV the state’s seasonal campaign has not yet launched. She said she was unaware of any other tourism campaigns. Her agency operates the visitnh.gov website.
While the initial spam remarks have not proven to be harmful, WHAV officials are removing the phony users and their posts out of concerns the attacks could become more sinister. WHAV is referring the matter to authorities for criminal prosecution.