Liking, sharing or forwarding false information on social media is also a crime, action may be taken: Police

 Liking, sharing or forwarding false information on social media is also a crime, action may be taken: Police

The police have requested people to think carefully before sharing information on social media. Nepal Police issued a notice on Wednesday, clarifying that not only those who post false information on social media but also those who like, share or forward it will be subject to the law.

According to the police, there is a common perception that posting old misleading videos as new is a common thing. In this way, passing off old misleading videos as new is spreading false information, which is considered a crime according to the law. The police have also said that there is a misconception that the person who shares is not legally responsible.

"The person who shares, likes or forwards any content is also legally responsible," the police have clarified through the notice. Similarly, some people believe that using a fake account will hide their identity. However, even when using a fake account, digital identity does not hide and the person concerned can be found.

Similarly, there seems to be a misconception among some that digital records are not considered evidence. The police have stated that screenshots, IP logs, digital records, etc. will be admissible as irrefutable evidence in court. According to Section 47 of the Electronic Transactions Act, 2063, publishing illegal, immoral or hateful material through electronic means can be punished with a fine of up to one lakh rupees or imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both.

There is a provision for a one and a half year punishment for repeating such an offense. If false information is found to be spread on social media against the law, information can be provided by calling the official social media account and page of Nepal Police and 100.