Police confirm the reports on social media of fake news articles have been referred to the Criminal Investigations Department’s Digital Forensics team for investigation with the team expected to record statements soon.
Police say they are working closely with the Online Safety Commission and will investigate those intentionally fabricating information with malicious intent of influencing public opinion by spreading fake news.
Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu says the rise in the circulation of fake news and misinformation being shared on social media provoking hate comments based on information deliberately fabricated, is extremely concerning.
He says Police are troubled at the way social media is being misused, with the latest trend of the sharing of fake news purporting to be mainstream media content, with the intent of deceiving users.
Tudravu is urging social media users to be aware and mindful of the posts they share from questionable sources.
He adds while they understand that the platform has become a popular source of information, users must take time to carefully distinguish between accurate information and fake news before sharing.
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