Virus Outbreak: Beware dubious ads: agencyDUE DILIGENCE: The Consumer Protection Committee said that people should fact-check suspect ads and information related to COVID-19 to avoid becoming a ‘covidiot’By Sean Lin / Staff reporterThe Executive Yuan’s Consumer Protection Committee on Thursday warned people not to fall for dubious advertisements amid the COVID-19 pandemic to avoid becoming a victim of fraud. People should fact-check any dubious advertisement or information about COVID-19 and remember not to pass on any suspicious information if they do not wish to become a “covidiot,” the committee said. They face charges of spreading false information about the pandemic, it said. Separately yesterday, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital issued a statement refuting an online rumor that the hospital has shut down due to the pandemic. The hospital’s hours have only been curtailed for the long holiday weekend, officials said, reminding the public that disseminating misinformation could result in criminal prosecution.

Source: Taipei Times April 03, 2020 15:56 UTC