Which option is NOT considered a step in managing rumors?

In the context of managing rumors, the focus is on strategies that facilitate clear communication and maintain trust. The process typically includes confirming facts to ensure that any information shared is accurate, searching for the roots and spread of the rumor to comprehend the situation fully, and transitioning the conversation toward verified facts and positive messaging.

Counterattacking, however, is not a constructive step in managing rumors. It often involves aggressive measures that can escalate the situation rather than calm it down, potentially leading to increased confusion and distrust. This approach can also create an adversarial dynamic, causing further problems rather than providing clarity. The objective in managing rumors is to engage with them thoughtfully and positively, making strategies like confirming, searching, and transitioning essential, while counterattacking is not aligned with best practices in communication management.