We will be very stern on misinformation, disinformation and any electronic communication intended to cause harm in the online space.
That is the warning from Online Safety Commissioner, Filipe Batiwale as public consultations continue on the review of the Online Safety Act 2018.
Batiwale says it is concerning to see the comments and content circulating on social media platforms around the world, describing the online environment as increasingly toxic.
He says the consultations provide an opportunity for people to help shape laws that can protect internet users and influence how people communicate online.
According to Batiwale, the review is focused on strengthening and improving the existing framework, streamlining processes and helping Fijians stay safer online while ensuring they have a more positive experience on the internet.
He says the current Online Safety Act, which was enacted in 2018, is outdated and needs to be revised to address emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, child sexual abuse material, cyberbullying and fake accounts.
He says there are also pages spreading content linked to political and national security issues that are difficult to regulate under the current framework.
When asked about concerns from people dissatisfied with complaint outcomes, the Commissioner says it depends on complainants fulfilling all the requirements and providing the necessary evidence to support their submissions.
He stresses that the Online Safety Commission does not make decisions on whether content is removed, saying social media platforms make those decisions based on the evidence provided by complainants.
Batiwale says the law will be used to protect individuals and ensure there is a fair and democratic society in the virtual space.
INSERT: Batiwale on consequences 31st May
Meanwhile, consultations will be held at the Garvey Park Hall in Tavua from 2pm to 5pm today, before heading to the Rakiraki UN Market Hall from 9am to midday tomorrow.
On Friday, consultations will be held at the Labasa Police Bure from 11am to 2pm, while the final consultation will take place at the Grand Eastern Hotel in Savusavu from 9am to midday on Saturday.
