Think twice before you forward: Pune Collector warns strict actions against those making fake COVID messages viral
Pune, July 1, 2020: Pune District Collector Naval Kishore Ram has warned of strict action against those spreading misleading information related to Coronavirus on WhatsApp. Those responsible for making fake messages regarding COVID-19 viral, which could lead to panic in public, would be identified and charged under cybercrime, Ram said.
A message claiming that the Coronavirus outbreak in the city will soon be entering the third stage was getting viral in the city.
The District Collector said that such messages can spread panic and fear amongst people, and hence those involved in spreading false information pertaining to COVID-19 would be identified by the Cyber Crime Cell of Pune Police.
The cases of fake messages regarding COVID-19 being spread on WhatsApp have increased tremendously in the city. Not just WhatsApp, but such messages are being spread on other social media platforms like Facebook as well. Earlier, when the lockdown began, fake messages regarding opening timings of shops and travel restrictions had made it difficult for police to maintain lockdown and social distancing norms in the city.
