Social media users can face legal action for spreading false Covid-19 information

Those who post false information about the Covid-19 situation in Thailand could face legal action. Several people are facing charges for posts they made on social media with misleading information on the spread of the coronavirus in Thailand and vaccine side effects. The false statements could potentially provoke social unrest and threaten national security, according to the Digital, Economy and Society Minister Chaiwut Thanakhamanusorn.

Under Thailand’s Computer Crime Act, posting information that could provoke social unrest and threaten national security, such as false information on the Covid-19 situation, is illegal and carries a punishment of up to 5 years in prison and a fine up to 100,000 baht. Misleading posts about the pandemic and Covid-19 vaccines also violate the Emergency Decree. Breaching the emergency orders carries a maximum penalty of 2 years imprisonment and a 40,000 baht fine. The minister warns that those who spread false information or news online will be charged.

“I’d like to warn people to think twice before posting fake or distorted news on the internet, or else legal action will follow.”

Officers recently arrested 6 people Bangkok, Chon Buri and Phra Nakhon Sri Ayutthaya for allegedly violating both the Computer Crime Act and Emergency Decree for social media posts they made. 12 other people have been ordered to delete posts.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post