13 Nov 2018

Fiji warned about fake news

5:08 am on 13 November 2018
Fiji Human Rights and Anti Discrimation Commission Director Ashwin Raj..

Ashwin Raj Photo: RNZI

Election authorities in Fiji are warning about false news stories in the run-up to tomorrow's election.

They were telling people to report any so-called fake news.

Social media users have found fake media sites with items about visa-free access to Australia and a ban on celebrating Diwali.

Ashwin Raj, of Fiji's media authority, said there was so much fake news that audiences found it hard to decide which was fact or fiction.

Mr Raj said people should report fake news.

A two-day campaign blackout started at midnight on Sunday, but the complaints to the elections office said some material remained on banners and car stickers.

Offenders risk the chance of a hefty fine and up to 10 years in jail.

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