Spreading rumors or false information is considered a serious offense in Qatar that may lead to legal action. 

The country's Ministry of Interior (MoI) reminds citizens and residents time and again about the severity of this issue as the misleading information can have an impact on the safety of the society. 

On Monday, in a series of tweets, MoI had cautioned all citizens and residents to be particularly careful in this regard, reiterating that anyone found of spreading or circulating fake news or unauthorized information will be held accountable by law. 

In a tweet yesterday, the MoI confirmed that the Economic and Cyber Crimes Department at the Ministry has reported cases of those accused of spreading rumors on social media to the Public Prosecution. 

The Economic and Cyber Crimes Department at #MoIQatar referred to the Public Prosecution some people accused of spreading on social media rumors and misinformation that affect the security and safety of society, to complete the legal procedures in this regard. #Qatar #Doha

— Ministry of Interior (@MOI_QatarEn) March 10, 2020

These individuals will face the relevant legal procedures for sharing false information that affects the security and safety of the community, the Ministry mentioned.

In one of the earlier reminders by MoI, it had specified that sometimes people share incidents that had taken place elsewhere but are passed off as incidents happening in Qatar.

Such actions can lead to panic among members of the public, causing unnecessary stress among other effects.

With new cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) reported in Qatar recently, some rumor-mongers have been involved in sharing fake news that is confusing people. 

MoI has reminded the public not to heed to rumors and always keep track of information released by official sources. 

Cover Image Credit: Flickr/@Meraj Chhaya