Sam Basil, Communication Minister of Papua New Guinea has revealed the country’s intention to ban Facebook for a month.
This he said, is part of government’s effort to identify fake profiles and consider the website’s effect on the country.
He mentioned that, users who post pornographic materials and false information would also be identified.
“Users that hide behind fake accounts, users that upload pornographic images and users that post false and misleading information, will be identified,” he said.
He mentioned that, the rise of so-called “fake news” has become a major problem for technology companies globally.
Although about 10% of the people in Papua New Guinea have internet access, the country is proving proactive in its regulation of online services.
The government therefore aims to use the month-long ban to analyse how Facebook is being used and prosecute those breaching the country’s 2016 cyber-crime law.
According to him, if the need be, the country could set up its own rival social network that is conducive for citizens.
Report by: Stephanie Horsu
