These are just two examples from among 550 widely shared fake news items about Covid-19 that the authorities have had to tackle since the start of the pandemic last year, according to an analysis by The Star. This year, the number of Covid-19 fake news items tackled by the authorities fell by 82% to 72 from January to June. This year, much of the fake news being spread on WhatsApp and social media has zeroed in on Covid-19 vaccines. Launched in March 2017, the portal gathers information regarding fake news or information through public tip-offs and collaboration with other ministries. From its inception up to May 31, 2021, the Sebenarnya.my portal has received a total of 13, 690 tip-offs.

Source: The Star July 12, 2021 22:52 UTC