Phnom Penh, 12 July 2024: A spokesman for the Ministry of Information has provided guidelines for the public on how to handle false information on social media, aiming to prevent the spread of harmful misinformation.

Tep Asarith, Undersecretary of State and spokesman for the Ministry of Information, addressed the Ministry's online media team on July 12, emphasizing the importance of adhering to certain principles to protect oneself, one’s family, and society from the dangers of false information.

GUIDELINES FOR HANDLING FALSE INFORMATION:

1. Avoid Sharing Information Too Quickly: Do not share or distribute information without thoroughly reading and verifying it first.

2. Verify Sources: Do not rely solely on social media for information. Always cross-check with traditional media sources such as newspapers, television, radio, news websites, and official digital media to ensure the information is true, accurate, and reliable before sharing.

3. Prioritize Traditional Media: Use traditional media and professional news agencies with high ethical standards as your primary sources of daily news and encourage others to do the same.

4. Share Positive Information: Disseminate only positive and verified information to maintain safety, order, and security in society, benefiting your family, those around you, and yourself.

Tep Asarith explained the importance of distinguishing between rumors and verified information. He advised that unless information is confirmed by a reliable source, it should not be considered trustworthy.

IDENTIFYING FAKE INFORMATION:

1. Check the Source: Verify the source of the information and see if it has been published by other reputable sources to avoid spreading mere rumors.

2. Evaluate Clarity: Be skeptical of information that is unclear or incomplete. Check for answers to the basic questions: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?

3. Be Cautious of Deceptive Advertisements: Beware of advertisements that appear to motivate immediate action with promises of rewards or benefits, as these are often designed to deceive.

4. Identify Missing Core Elements: Look for the absence of key elements or main characters in biased information that may be politically motivated to distort facts, mislead public opinion, damage reputations, or cause unrest.

5. Verify Before Believing: Before believing or sharing any information, especially on social media, read and verify it carefully.

Tep Asarith highlighted the detrimental effects of false information, which can lead to social chaos, discrimination, hostility, and undermine public order and national security. His advice comes in response to recent incidents involving the creation and distribution of false information about the dismissal of the Minister of Tourism and the installation of the Minister of Mines and Energy.