Watchdog eyes fake accounts

THE Integrity Commission is considering action over fake social media accounts allegedly used during the state election campaign.

The anti-corruption watchdog has been in contact with the Tasmanian Electoral Commission to discuss whether an investigation would be warranted.

The development comes after senior State Government adviser Martine Haley resigned over the use of a fake social media account.

The Mercury revealed yesterday that two anti-pokies pubs in Hobart had been trolled with negative reviews and comments from a fake Facebook identity known as Brent Smith.

It is understood several other fake profiles have been circulating and other businesses have been affected, drawing comparisons between the Tasmanian poll and alleged Russian interference in the election of US President Donald Trump.

Integrity Commission chief Richard Bingham told the Mercury his organisation was aware of the issue.

“We have been liaising with the Electoral Commissioner about what, if any, action is appropriate given the possibility that offences may have been committed under the Electoral Act,” Mr Bingham said.

“We recognise that the use of social media is a significant misconduct risk area.”

Under the Tasmanian Electoral Act, it is an offence to publish unauthorised or misleading and deceptive “electoral matter”, including online.

The first offence carries a maximum penalty of three months’ jail or a $15,900 fine.

The second, more serious offence carries a six-month maximum jail term or fine of $32,000.

The Tasmanian Government’s communications website includes guidelines for the use of non-government sites, but not ethical standards.

Both major parties went to the election with pledges of tougher laws for cyber-bullying.

Social media expert Jen Murnaghan, from Hobart consultancy Digital Dandy, said the use of fake profiles was unethical.

“Any professional or business representative must have clear guidance on corporate responsibility online,” she said.

“I believe an investigation should take place, in the same way in which any work-related misdemeanour would be investigated.”

UTAS expert Louise Grimmer said tougher rules against the use of fake accounts would be difficult to police.

“It isn’t too difficult to find out they’re fake accounts, it’s who’s running the fake accounts,” she said.

“If it comes from a candidate, you could legislate against that.”

Premier Will Hodgman has said he is open to a review of the Electoral Act.