The Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has arrested a total of 49 individuals allegedly involved in spreading fake news and doing online scams on April 15.
According to PNP-ACG’s data, about 24 cases have been filed against these people from March 9 to April 13 for reportedly spreading fabricated information as well as illegal selling of face masks.
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In an interview with GMA News, PNP spokesman Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac said that these cases involve fake news about COVID-19, and include violation of data privacy, as well as selling and hoarding of merchandise.
PNP reminded individuals not to propagate fake news during this global crisis, because perpetrators could be charged for violating Republic Act 10175 or the Anti-Cybercrime Law.
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“Our cybercops will be in full gear to address this continuing struggle against fake news proliferators and online scammers in the time of deadly contagion. We will arrest these cybercriminals to stop their illegal activities online that may cause harm, confusion, and panic among our people,” GMA News quoted him as saying.
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