Countless reports of crime are being posted to community Facebook pages every day where they rarely ever get seen by investigators, according to Crime Stoppers Queensland.

A new campaign for Crime Stoppers Day is urging people to report their CCTV footage, eye-witness accounts and rumours of suspicious activity directly to authorities instead of posting on social media.

“This year’s campaign focuses on busting the myth that social media is the best place to raise concerns about crime and suspicious activity,” Crime Stoppers Queensland chief executive David Hansen said.

“Social media might alert your neighbours, but it does little to help police track down offenders, prevent crime or keep communities safe.”

Unconfirmed or inaccurate information can also be problematic.

“Unverified posts can fuel fear, spread misinformation, and even lead to vigilante behaviour or the public shaming of innocent people,” Hansen said.

Hansen said if it was important enough to post on social media, it was important enough to report through the proper channels.

“We’re asking everyday Queenslanders to move from online commentary to real-world impact,” Hansen said.

“Whether it’s a gut feeling, something you saw or something you heard – don’t just talk about it online.

“Take that extra step and report it to Crime Stoppers.”

In an emergency or if a crime is happening now, call triple zero.

If you need police assistance, but it’s not an emergency, you can contact Policelink on 131 444.

Reports to Crime Stoppers can be made anonymously and you will not be made to give a police statement or attend court.