Using Pope Francis for Clickbait? The Disturbing Rise of Fake News on Social Media

The Internet Has No Shame: Fake News Strikes Again

It happened again. Another fake death hoax is making the rounds on social media, but this time, it is not a celebrity like Clint Eastwood or Dennis Rodman. This time, it is Pope Francis.

A Facebook post recently surfaced, falsely insinuating that the Pope had passed away. It was shared on a group called "Post Your Affiliate Links Here" — a place meant for business and networking, not lies and deceit. This isn’t just reckless. It’s deeply disturbing.

What's even more disturbing is, the post was make on a page that is set up specifically to get as many clicks as possible.

SurfSideSafe's Fact Checking

Before creating this article, we did our own fact-checking by searching, "Latest condition of Pope Francis, as of today, April 4, 2025" on Google. Here's what it returned:

As of April 4, 2025, Pope Francis's condition remains stable, with improvements in his lung infection, mobility, and voice, according to the Holy See Press Office, and he continues to celebrate daily Mass and work from his desk.

The Problem With Fake News

Spreading false information about someone’s death is more than just clickbait. It causes unnecessary panic, spreads misinformation, and disrespects the person involved. When it comes to a figure as respected as Pope Francis, the damage is even greater.

Think about the people who love and follow him. Think about how they would feel seeing such a post. This is not just ’harmless’ internet gossip. It’s intentional deception.

Why Do People Do This?

Because fake news gets clicks. It sparks engagement. It stirs up emotions. And unfortunately, some people will do anything for attention—even if it means lying.

This isn’t just an isolated case. Social media has become a breeding ground for misleading information. And the worst part? Most platforms don’t do anything to stop it.

SurfSideSafe Stands for the Truth

At SurfSideSafe, we take a stand against fake news. Unlike other platforms, we value integrity, accuracy, and honesty. If you’re tired of misinformation, tired of platforms that allow lies to spread unchecked, it’s time to join a real and honest social media network.

🚨 We fact-check.

🚨 We don’t allow misleading clickbait.

🚨 We create a safe, truthful space for real discussions.

Join a Platform That Values Honesty

If you’re as sick of fake news as we are, you don’t have to tolerate it anymore. Join SurfSideSafe today and be part of a community that actually cares about the truth.

🔹 No clickbait.

🔹 No false information.

🔹 Just real people, real news, and real conversations.

👉 Sign up today and take a stand against fake news!

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