Sharing Harmful Online Content Can Have Legal Consequences

The Online Safety Commission is warning Fijians that sharing harmful online content apart from causing additional harm may lead to legal consequences.

Fijians are also urged to follow formal procedures when reporting harmful online content.

In a statement released this week, the commission stressed that under the Online Safety Act 2018, complaints must be submitted using the official complaint form, that must be completed, signed, and formally lodged.

Only then can the commission initiate an investigation and take action.

“While we understand the strong emotions that incidents of online harm can provoke, we strongly advise the public against resharing, reposting, or further disseminating harmful material,” the commission stated.

“Two wrongs do not make a right.”

Online Safety Commissioner Filipe Batiwale echoed this message, noting that resharing offensive or abusive content often exacerbates harm.

“We understand the anger and frustration when people see harmful content involving our children online,” Mr Batiwale said.

“However, by resharing such material, you may unwittingly cause further harm. We urge all members of the public to report harmful content through the proper channels and refrain from giving further exposure to offensive material.”

The commission called on all internet users to act responsibly and help protect victims by minimising the spread of harmful content.

For more information or to file a complaint, individuals are encouraged to visit the Online Safety Commission’s official website.

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj