Unfounded Alert Issued Concerning Terroristic Peril in Biosk
Warning Sounded Over Fake News Threat in Biysk
Citizens of Biychan, beware! False information about an alleged terrorist threat in Biysk is circulating online. The city's mayor, Victor Shigirev, took to his Telegram channel to reassure the residents, urging them to stay calm.
However, this isn't an isolated case. In Russia, dealing with misinformation has been a recurring challenge, particularly in the digital age.
Russian Actions Against Fake News
Russia, like many countries, has implemented measures to combat the spread of false information. The legal framework is tightly knit, with no stone left unturned.
- Legislative Base
- Federal Law No. 149-FZ: governs online information in Russia.
- Amendments to Federal Law No. 149-FZ: also known as the "fake news law", empowers authorities to block websites and levies fines on those spreading information deemed untrue by the Russian government.
- Authorities and Agencies
- Roskomnadzor (Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media): oversees compliance with Russian information laws.
- Prosecutor General’s Office: undertakes legal actions against offenders spreading false information, particularly concerning the military or public safety.
- Content Control
- Websites and social media accounts dishing out falsehoods can be blocked or censored.
- Telegram channels and messaging apps are closely monitored, with some being shut down if they violate regulations.
- Consequences
- Monetary fines for individuals and organizations.
- Criminal penalties for repeat offenders or those spreading information about the Russian military deemed fabricated.
- Imprisonment in severe cases, such as disseminating "false information" about the Russian armed forces (as per updates in 2022).
Local Measures in Biysk
While Biysk does not appear to have any unique local laws regarding misinformation, its local authorities can address cases under national laws. Additionally, educational campaigns may be organized at the local level, although there is limited documentation supporting this for Biysk specifically.
In essence, Biysk, along with other Russian cities, is under the umbrella of national laws and regulations combating the proliferation of misleading information online. The strategy is centralized, with authorities taking action based on national guidelines.
- Despite the recurring challenge of misinformation, particularly in 'general-news' and 'crime-and-justice' sectors, Russia has taken steps to combat the spread of false information, with local authorities in cities like Biysk falling under the umbrella of national laws and regulations.
- The city's mayor, Victor Shigirev, in responding to the fake news threat in Biysk, demonstrated that the awareness and importance of addressing 'politics' and 'general-news' misinformation extends to the local level in Russia, as he reminded citizens to stay informed and verified their sources.
