‘A single lie can divide a nation’ — Tabuya warns on misinformation online

A single lie can divide a nation.

Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya made this warning in Parliament as she raised concerns about the growing spread of misinformation and disinformation online.

She said the problem was evident during the recent cyclone when false announcements began circulating online while families were seeking reliable updates.

“We saw this clearly during the cyclone the last couple of weeks. While families were trying to find safety and reliable updates, false announcements began circulating online.”

One widely shared post falsely claimed that civil service offices had been closed and civil servants did not have to report to work.

“It looked official, it looked real, but it was completely false.

“That is why the Ministry of Information works day and night to verify information and correct false reports.”

She warned that the nature of social media means anyone can now create and spread information instantly.

“Today, every person with a smartphone is a publisher, a detective, a coach, a lawyer, a psychologist, and the list goes on.”

“Anyone can post, anyone can share, anyone can start a story.”

She said unverified content was often shared before facts were checked and sometimes even before people helped those in need.

“Sometimes these stories are shared before they are even verified. Sometimes people record videos before helping those in need.”

She also raised concerns about the sharing of private content and online abuse.

“Sometimes crimes are committed within minutes, as private content is shared across Fiji without consent. Or TikTok videos go viral of personal attacks using vulgar words.”

Ms Tabuya warned that a single social media action could have serious consequences.

“A single post can damage a reputation. It can cause termination of employment.”

“A single rumour can create panic. It can hurt people. It can break up families.”

“A single share can commit a crime. A single lie can divide a nation.”