Main image via The Straits Times + India Times
It’s a scary time right now with the coronavirus making its way around the world.
And what doesn’t help an already stressful situation, is fake news.
And now, that fake news could get you arrested.
via GIPHY
We’re sure you’ve been receiving messages regarding “updated reports” about the Wuhan virus in Malaysia.
But, unless the message comes from an official source, it can be assumed that the messages are false/fake news.
via GIPHY
A man has recently been detained for spreading fake or false news concerning the corona virus.
With the assistance of the police, the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) arrested the 34-year-old man on Tuesday.
“The suspect was detained for spreading false information of Jan 26 regarding the virus,” MCMC said. “The suspect’s mobile phone and SIM card, believed to have been used to upload the fake news on Facebook, were also seized.”
via GIPHY
The case is currently being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimed Act 1998 which carries a maximum fine of RM50,000 or not more than a year of imprisonment or both upon conviction.
“Such a stern action is taken to ensure that fake news about the virus are not spread by irresponsible individuals that could disrupt public order,” MCMC said in a statement.
“Spreading news to cause fear or panic amoing the public can also be investigated un Section 505 of the Penal Code, which carries two years imprisonment or a fine or both upon conviction,” MCMC added.
MCMC and the police are currently looking for three other suspects in connection with spreading fake news.
“It shows our seriousness in curbing the spread of false information,” the commission said.
So be sure to stay away from creating fake news, unless you’ve got RM50,000 and a year of your life to kill that is… Also, don’t help in spreading the fake news if you’re not sure where the information came from.
If you want to keep up-to-date with the coronavirus in Malaysia, you can follow the official Ministry of Health’s Facebook page here.
Be sure to report any fake or false news you may come upon too! Have you come upon fake news about the coronavirus? Let us know!
Info via The Star