Many social media users baited by fake posts online these past few weeks

With many of the country’s people on the streets demanding regime change, there are some elements with vested interests carrying out targeted misinformation and fake news campaigns on social media platforms to cause a lawless situation.

In recent weeks, many such fake content went viral before the authorities issued clarifications.

One such blatantly false post linked one of the Rajapaksas acquiring a rare painting by famous Sri Lankan artist George Keyt from a well-known businessman for several millions of rupees. Some digital platforms also ran with the fake news to get more viewership and hits.

This came as a surprise to the businessman concerned, Hemaka Amarasuriya who was said to be the custodian of the painting in the fake posts. Not only did he write to the social media outlet challenging the report but has also taken steps to press charges through his lawyers.

Another piece of content that went viral is video footage of a container operation that took place at the Jaya Container Terminal at the Colombo Port suggesting that the ill-gotten money of politicians was being taken out of the country.

By the time Sri Lanka Ports Authority issued a clarification that the video is a re-export of radioactive materials for disposal with the approval of the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council, the fake news had done the rounds. The damage was already done.

There is little focus on truth and accurate reports these days when clickbait headlines and fake news content dominate the social media platforms.