Rail services were disrupted after a suspected AI-generated image showing severe damage to a bridge circulated on social media following an earthquake.
The tremor, which struck on Wednesday night, was felt across Lancashire and the southern Lake District. Network Rail said it became aware of an image appearing to show major damage to Carlisle Bridge in Lancaster at 00:30 GMT. Rail services over the bridge were temporarily halted while safety inspections were carried out.
“The disruption caused by hoax images and videos creates unnecessary delays for passengers and costs taxpayers,” a spokesperson said. “It also adds to the workload of our frontline teams, who work hard to keep rail services running smoothly. Passenger and staff safety is our top priority, and we always take any safety concerns seriously.”
The British Transport Police said they were informed of the incident, but no formal investigation is underway. Network Rail reported that 32 services, including passenger and freight trains, were delayed due to the hoax. Delays ranged across the West Coast Main Line, affecting some services as far north as Scotland.
Railway expert Tony Miles explained that few passengers were affected since the timing mostly involved freight and sleeper trains, which travel slowly to allow passengers to rest. However, he noted the hoax forced Network Rail to mobilize teams to inspect the bridge, potentially impacting operations for days.
Miles stressed the real-world consequences of such hoaxes. “If delays had affected a train carrying someone to a medical appointment, flight, or funeral, it could have serious implications. It may seem harmless, but anyone considering creating such images should think about the real impact on people,” he said.
