NCSA opens special cell to check fake information, rumours

The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has formed a special cell to prevent fake information, misleading contents and rumors ahead of the upcoming national elections. 

The cell will monitor online and social media around-the-clock, verify information and ensure authenticity of content, a press release said.

To this end, the NCSA will work in coordination with the Chief Adviser's Press Wing, Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB), Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), and the law enforcement agencies.

The NCSA has asked general people to verify the source of any information or content before sharing it on social media. All have also been requested to immediately inform the NCSA if they notice suspicious, provocative or anti-national contents.

The release added that it is the responsibility of all to keep the country's cyberspace safe. The NCSA has requested everyone to refrain from spreading false or fake information, photo cards and videos, and to make others aware of the trap of anti-state quarters.

The NCSA has a 24/7 helpline service to provide quick assistance to the people in preventing cybercrime. Four separate e-mail addresses have been opened to receive complaints from citizens: 

1. report_betting@ncsa.gov.bd - for complaints related to online gambling.

2. report_misinfo@ncsa.gov.bd - for complaints related to false information, rumours, misinformation, or disinformation.

3. report_harassment@ncsa.gov.bd - for complaints related to fake profiles, obscene or harmful content and online harassment.

4. report_cii@ncsa.gov.bd - for complaints related to cyber attacks on Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) institutions.

The NCSA seeks cooperation from all citizens so that they can play a role in using the country's digital space safely and responsibly.