Cybercrime unit reminds public anew on fake news

THE REGIONAL Anti-Cyber Crime Unit (RACU) warned the public of spreading fake news related to the COVID-19.

In a text message yesterday, Col. Noel Espinoza, the chief of the Regional Anti-Cyber Crime Unit based at Camp Domingo Leonor along San

Pedro Street, that violators will face a charge in relation to RA 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

With the COVID-19 threat, he said they were directed to file a charge against those spreading false information that can trigger panic.

The cybercrime unit also continues to monitor social media, particularly Facebook, for individuals or groups creating or sharing fake news.

“And if evidence warrants (against) those who are posting fake news, a case will possibly be filed for violation of Section 154 in relation

to Section 6 of RA 10175,” Espinoza said.

Under the Art. 154 of the RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012), for unlawful use of means of publication and unlawful utterances, violators may face a penalty of arresto mayor and a fine ranging from P200 to P1,000.

He said they have been receiving reports per day on fake news.

However, he could not estimate the number.

Nevertheless, he assured that they are verifying each report to determine liability.