Bank clerk is the latest person to be questioned for spreading fake news about the novel coronavirus (2019-nCov)

Bank clerk detained for spreading fake news on coronavirus

THE STAR

Thursday, 30 Jan 202010:01 PM MYT

By JO TIMBUONG



PETALING JAYA: A bank clerk is the latest person to be questioned for spreading fake news about the novel coronavirus (2019-nCov).

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said the 28-year-old woman was picked up in Kuantan around 4pm on Thursday (Jan 30) for allegedly posting fake news about the Wuhan virus on Facebook on Monday (Jan 27).


In a statement, MCMC said the woman's mobile phone and SIM card were also taken as evidence.

The case is being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities.


If convicted, the suspect could be fined up to RM50,000 or serve a year in jail or both.

An additional RM1,000 fine could also be imposed for each day the fake news is spread after conviction.

According to MCMC, the communications industry regulator and police have arrested six people for spreading fake news about the virus since Jan 28.