In response to Opinion letters by Disheartened on ‘Call for accountability in social media misuse’ published on March 19 and ‘When influencers become bullies’ by Concerned Citizen published on March 22, the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) would like to remind the public of the importance of using the Internet, including social media, in a responsible manner.
Active users of online communities and social media platforms are asked to be mindful of the content that they create and upload and ensure that they are not violating the law. Some things to remember:
i) Be mindful of what you post online. Act responsibly and be sensitive while interacting online. Think about the possible consequences for yourself and how you may affect others prior to posting on social media.
ii) Think before sharing or forwarding information. Not everything on social media should be accepted as the truth. Verify the legitimacy of the information before reposting or sharing.
iii) Reach out for help. Seek support from a friend, family member or speak to a mental health professional.
The public is further reminded that dissemination of false statements that affect a person’s good reputation is an offence under Section 499 of the Penal Code (Chapter 22) and punishable with imprisonment of up to five years and a fine under Section 500 of the Penal Code (Chapter 22).
Civil action for defamation can also be taken by the person being defamed.
Cyberbullying is another online threat which involves insulting or threatening someone by sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content through online platforms causing fear, embarrassment or humiliation. The public is also reminded that cyberbullying may be classified as an offence under the Penal Code (Chapter 22).
AITI works closely with government agencies and law enforcement agencies to direct Internet service providers and Internet content providers to prevent access to websites which contain content that contravenes the Internet Code of Practice under the Broadcasting Act and content that violates the community guidelines of social media such as false news and scams, hate speech, violence and incitement.
Corporate Communications Unit, AITI
