Internet rumors cost little but cause great harm. Rumors can’t just apologize.
In the era of social media and instant information sharing, the spread of rumors online has become a serious issue. Recently, several incidents have highlighted the negative impact of fake news and fabricated stories circulating on the internet.
One such incident involved Weibo bloggers spreading false news about the “passing away” of celebrity Zhao Yazhi in order to generate more traffic to their profiles. The rumor was eventually debunked, and the rumor maker issued an apology. Responding to the incident, Zhao Yazhi’s studio highlighted the importance of the law in regulating online content.
Another case involved a netizen in Dongguan who shared an old video of water accumulation on the road, claiming that 8 people had died in heavy rain. The individual was detained by the police for fabricating facts and disrupting public order.
Despite efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat online rumors, the Ministry of Public Security reported that more than 80,000 online rumor clues had been investigated, resulting in over 10,000 cases being pursued, and 1,500 suspects being arrested. However, the proliferation of online rumors persists, with perpetrators often driven by profit motives.
The consequences of spreading rumors can be devastating, leading to misinformation, panic, and reputational damage for individuals and organizations. It is crucial for both individuals and institutions to be held accountable for their actions and to face the legal consequences of spreading false information.
In the age of the internet, where everyone has a platform to express their opinions, it is essential to distinguish between sharing factual information and fabricating stories for personal gain. The spread of rumors not only undermines trust in society but can also have far-reaching implications for individuals and communities.
Cyberspace is not exempt from the law, and efforts must be made to crack down on those who engage in illegal activities online. By holding rumor makers accountable and imposing stricter penalties for spreading false information, we can protect the integrity of information and uphold trust in our society.只有当被追究责任的几率持续增大以及违法行为的可能成本不断上升，造谣者才会停止在网络上肆无忌惮地胡说八道。信任是社会的宝贵公共资产。信任的建立和维护需要长期的努力。绝不能让网络谣言动摇诚实社会的基石。（舒升祥）