The Security and Intelligence Service has reported “an exponential increase” in the promotion of fake news about the “conflict” in Ukraine, as well as “orchestrated hate messages” targeting refugees. To date, 11 websites have been blocked for warmongering and inciting hatred.
SIS director Alexandr Esaulenco told a press briefing that the blocked content promoted fake or misleading information, completely or partially aimed at justifying and promoting the war, as well as stirring up enmity and inter-ethnic conflicts, including in Moldova.
Standing out are news items reposted from foreign news agencies, especially those that favor military aggression, without including alternative views or verifying allegations; those with sensational headlines; or manipulated photo and video content fomenting panic, tensions or social conflicts.
There are also instances of radical views voiced by people presented as experts in security, defense and related fields who do not actually have sufficient qualifications. “We are witnessing organized efforts by both external and internal forces aimed at dividing society on the subject of refugees, and at creating panic around the supply of the Moldovan market with essential goods”, said the SIS director.
Esaulenco added that the SIS has teamed up with other law enforcement agencies to investigate the proliferation of fake news.
