A man has been arrested for sharing ‘fake news’ to solicit donations, ostensibly for border troops. - Anti-cyber Crime Department via PPP/A
PHNOM PENH: The Anti-Cyber Crime Department arrested a man on June 27, after uncovering a scam in which he solicited money under the guise of raising funds to support frontline border troops.
He also posted false information online about a supposed Cambodia–Thailand border conflict, causing public concern and social instability.
In a July 1 statement, the department explained that the arrest was carried out in coordination with the Phnom Penh Municipal Court Prosecutor. Their investigations revealed that the suspect had used his personal Facebook account and page to commit fraud by calling for donations while pretending to represent border troops.
In addition, the suspect had shared a fake video depicting an alleged explosion, misleading Facebook users into believing that a war had broken out at the Cambodia–Thailand border.
The department has submitted his case file to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court Prosecutor for further action.
The department issued a strong reminder to the public: before posting any content, photos or videos, people should verify the source and the location of the events to avoid sharing misleading information.
It further urged the public to carefully consider the intent behind sharing such content — whether it is to stir alarm, gain attention. increase popularity or seek personal benefit.
“Any dissemination of false or socially disruptive information that affects security and public order is illegal and will be subject to legal consequences,” it warned. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
