PNP intensifies cyber patrol vs fake news amid COVID-19 scare

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is intensifying its cyberspace patrol to track down and prosecute individuals spreading fake news about COVID-19.

The PNP is looking into two cases of social media users in Eastern Visayas for spreading false information regarding the COVID-19 outbreak.

The fake news has been removed from social media, and authorities are currently investigating and collecting evidence with the help of the Department of Health (DOH).

Violators may face imprisonment ranging from six months to six years or a fine of PHP40,000 to PHP200,000 for violating the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

PNP aims to prevent public panic and misinformation that could hinder government efforts against the health crisis.

The DOH urges the public to counter fake news by sharing correct information from reliable sources and reminds them to get information about COVID-19 only from official DOH press releases, websites, and social media accounts.