Amanda Todd probe delayed by online rumours, scams

RCMP say online rumours and scams are delaying their investigation into the case of B.C. teenager Amanda Todd, who turned to YouTube to express her sadnessabout being bullied before taking her life.

Sgt. PeterThiessen says one of those rumours is an "unfounded allegation" by the internet activist group Anonymous thatidentifies a New Westminster man as the B.C. teen's tormentor.

CBC News has learnedthat some of the background information that was posted could not haveapplied tothe man whowas named, and that there are at least twoother people onlineusing the samename and similar email addresses.

The 15-year-old took her own life last week, after enduring years of Internet sexual exploitation and bullying by her peers.

Social media expert Dave Teixeira says it's understandable for people to bemotivatedto support Todd, but the extreme views being expressed by some is a real concern.

"At thevery worst, you are finding someone who is not involved and that could bring great stress if not great harm onto that person. So, for people who want to help, they have to notify authorities when they think they've found information that's pertinent to this case," Teixeira told CBC News on Tuesday.

Expressingextremely negative comments can also work against those making such postings online.

RCMP still getting tips

A Toronto man was firedwhen his employer was informedabout comments the employeehad made about Todd and her death.

Thiessen said that another rumour suggested autopsy photos had been leaked a false story that caused Todd's family extreme stress. No autopsy was performed on the 15-year-old.

There are even websites taking advantage of the tragedy by pretending to collect funds for her family, and police say donations should only be made to the Amanda Todd Trust at RBC.

RCMP says they've received thousands of tips and their investigation continues into the sexual exploitation and assault Todd endured before her death.