What should you do first according to the rumor procedure if you hear an untrue statement?

The first step according to the rumor procedure when you hear an untrue statement is to promote the opposite without mentioning the rumor. This approach allows you to address the misinformation indirectly by providing correct information or positive messages related to the subject. By doing this, you can help mitigate the impact of the false statement without drawing further attention to it.

Publicizing the rumor or confronting the source may inadvertently escalate the situation, potentially giving the rumor more credence or attention than it deserves. Ignoring the rumor could allow it to spread unchecked, as it lacks any counterbalance or clarification. Therefore, promoting the opposite is an effective way to subtly correct the narrative and help establish a more accurate understanding while minimizing the potential for further misinformation.