And news reports claiming he is could infect your PC

Posts on social media claim to be from Fox News and say: ‘Mr. Bean (Rowan Atkinson)’ died at 62 After Crashing his Car on Attempt perfecting a Stunt - Today July, 2017.’

Although dated from a year ago, the untrue claims have been reappearing on timelines.

But experts have warned users not to click a link purporting to show a video, as it could lead to a virus.

The Hoax-Slayer website says clicking the link will redirect users to a scam or malware website. 

It says: ‘In some cases, you will be taken to a fake "Security Error" web page that falsely claims that your computer has been locked because it is infected with viruses.  You will be prompted to call a "support number" urgently.’

 However, it warns not to call the number as scammers will try to trick you into giving them your credit card details or downloading software that will allow them to take control of your computer, steal your files, and install malware.

‘In other cases, you may be redirected to a dodgy "survey" website,’ the site reports.  ‘But,your information will be shared with unscrupulous online marketing companies.’

‘In still other cases, you may be redirected to websites that harbour malware, rogue apps, or malicious browser plugins.’

It's not the first time fake claims about Atkinson’s death have been spread. The Blackadder actor was the subject of untrue reports that he died in a car crash in Los Angeles in 2016 and in March this year.

Published: 19 Jul 2018