A total of 49 alleged purveyors of fake news and online scam have been arrested amid the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group said Wednesday.
Data from the PNP-ACG showed that from March 9 to April 13, a total of 24 cases have been filed against those who allegedly spread false information and those who were supposedly involved in face mask scam.
PNP spokesman Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac said these cases were inclusive of all COVID-related fake news, ranging from violation of data privacy to illegal selling and hoarding of merchandise.
The police organization has been warning the public about the proliferation of fake news during the health crisis. According to the PNP, those who spread fake news could be charged for violating Republic Act 10175 or the Anti-Cybercrime Law.
In line with this, Banac clarified rumors being spread online and on text messages about the supposed standardization of salary pension.
Banac said, according to PNP Retirement and Benefits Administration Service, there was no directive on the rumored standardization of salary pensions retirees and their alleged 29% increase.
“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," he said.
"We will arrest these cybercriminals to stop their illegal activities online that may cause harm, confusion, and panic among our people,” he added.—AOL, GMA News
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