NBI tracking sources of ‘fake news’ on coronavirus

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will track the sources of disinformation on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) particularly those that “sow chaos and will lead to unrest and anarchy in the country.”

NBI officer-in-charge Eric Distor said he had instructed the Cybercrime Division, Digital Forensic Division, and other investigative units of the bureau, including the Regional Operations Service, to trace the sources of disinformation on COVID-19 being circulated on social media.

“The new directive by the NBI Director was prompted by an alleged statement from the US State Department warning of potential looting incidents during its month-long lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19,” read a press statement from the NBI on Friday.

Distor said these reports are “baseless and totally untrue,” adding that the US State Department has clarified that it only releases information and advisories through its official social media platforms and website.

He said the NBI International Operations Division is now gathering relevant information for possible case build-up and filing of cases against the perpetrators of this disinformation effort.

“Director Distor said what is clear at the moment is that the NBI, our Cyber Crime Division in particular, is now investigating all possible sources of fake news being spread in various social media platforms and will submit its results to the Secretary of Justice,” read the statement from the bureau.

Distor added that the public is welcome to seek clarification from the NBI on the accuracy of any report that intends to cast doubts on the government’s efforts to curb the spread of the disease.

He also said that the NBI has started to use its skeleton staff since March 16.

“But all agents are on call including forensic experts and critical services like security and in charge of our criminal databases and technical experts… Please inform the people they can call us anytime)” he said, adding that the NBI still accepts complaints especially on overpricing and hoarding of medical supplies. He said online sellers of overpriced medical products and those without permits will also be held liable.

Distor added that NBI agents also conducted rounds in areas in Metro Manila where the supposed crime incidents related to the quarantine were reported.

Several posts about supposed robbery incidents in Metro Manila in view of the enhanced community quarantine have also circulated on social media, but these are “fake news” according to Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa. He said the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group is now tracing the authors of these posts.

The national government has placed the entire Luzon under enhanced community quarantine, which includes the suspension of public transport operations, to help curb the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019. The quarantine period started on March 17 and will end at midnight on April 13.

EDV