PNG Public Warned to be Cautious of Social Media Scams

The Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Hon Jim Miringtoro MP, has called on members of the public to be aware of scams, lies and other misleading information appearing on some social media sites.

The minister said that while there are credible commentators and some interesting debate on social media, there are also a number of desperate radical activists who seek to cause public distress.

“The internet and social media has enriched our society and created access to a wealth of information,” Mr Miringtoro said.

“However, some social media sites have become places where radicals try to spread lies, cause distress and harm reputations.

“I hope all Papua New Guineans will be cautious when they read SMS messages, posts, tweets, blog entries and other information that seems suspicious.

“Check where the information came from and it is not from a credible source such as a news organization or known person, treat it with a grain of salt.

“The radical activist bloggers are not published in main stream news because they lack credibility so they resort to social media ranting.

“While some of these rants are so outrageous they can only be seen as humorous, other more sinister posts cause distress and even incite violence.”

“I have seen deplorable comments on social media with calls for people to burn government vehicles and attack public servants.”

The Minister said national laws are in place to protect the public from slander and incitation to violence.

“If a person incites violence on social media they can be arrested and tried through the criminal courts.

“If a person posts something that is untrue or slanderous, the aggrieved party has every right to seek compensation or damages in the civil court.”

The Police Minister said it is the democratic right of all Papua New Guineans to voice their opinion and free speech is a cornerstone of democracy, but people must always be responsible and act in accordance with the laws of the land.