Countries that have laws against fake news
Several countries have laws or regulations aimed at combating fake news, disinformation, and propaganda. Here are some examples:
- Singapore: The Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) was passed in 2019, making it illegal to spread false information online. Offenders can face fines and even imprisonment.
- Malaysia: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has the power to block or remove online content deemed to be fake news or misinformation.
- Philippines: The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 includes provisions to combat fake news and disinformation, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.
- Russia: The "Yarovaya Law" (2016) requires internet companies to store user data for at least six months and to remove content deemed to be extremist or fake news.
- China: The Cybersecurity Law (2017) requires internet companies to remove online content deemed to be illegal or harmful, including fake news and propaganda.
- Egypt: The Egyptian government has blocked several news websites and social media accounts accused of spreading fake news and disinformation.
- Turkey: The Turkish government has blocked several news websites and social media accounts accused of spreading fake news and disinformation, and has also arrested several journalists and activists.
- Hungary: The Hungarian government has passed laws aimed at combating fake news and disinformation, including a law requiring online platforms to remove content deemed to be illegal or harmful.
- Poland: The Polish government has passed laws aimed at combating fake news and disinformation, including a law requiring online platforms to remove content deemed to be illegal or harmful.
- India: The Indian government has launched several initiatives to combat fake news and disinformation, including a fact-checking website and a program to promote media literacy.
- United States: While there is no federal law specifically targeting fake news, several states have passed laws aimed at combating disinformation and propaganda. For example, California has passed a law requiring online platforms to remove content deemed to be false or misleading.
- European Union: The EU has passed several laws aimed at combating disinformation and propaganda, including the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (2018) and the Code of Practice on Disinformation (2018).
It's worth noting that many of these laws and regulations have been criticized for being overly broad or vague, and for potentially infringing on freedom of speech and press freedoms.