Forward fake emails at own risk, TCRA warns

DODOMA: TANZANIA Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has urged the public to be vigilant against fake, false and misleading online contents.

Taking the stance TCRA’s Head of Public Relations and Corporate Communication, Mr Rolf Kibaja, said in Dodoma recently that the authority has renewed its “Delete and Trash” campaign on responsible internet and social media use.

He warned consumers against forwarding misleading or malicious emails and social media posts, stressing that the campaign offers practical tips on responsible access and use of telecommunications services.

Mr Kibaja noted a rise in harmful online content capable of causing public disorder and threatening national security.

The campaign, he said, aims to help consumers avoid legal trouble linked to the spread of false information.One of TCRA’s strategic goals is to promote secure and reliable communications infrastructure.

The renewed campaign builds on the earlier SITAPELIKI project, which educated the public on how to avoid mobile phone and internet scams. Mr Kibaja said some false contents are created using deepfake technology, where artificial intelligence produces convincing but fake videos, texts or graphics.

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The campaign teaches verification tools such as reverse image searches to confirm authenticity. Consumers are also guided on spotting red flags, including poor spelling, suspicious exaggeration and unverified sources.

They are urged to check website credibility before making transactions and to avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments. With Tanzania’s general election set for October 29, Mr Kibaja emphasised the importance of relying on official election information to prevent unrest and misinformation.

TCRA Senior Officer Raphael Mwango said the campaign also targets younger tech-savvy consumers who quickly adopt new technologies.

He warned that rumours and misleading contents can damage reputations, harm mental health and even endanger lives.

Describing “Delete and Trash” as an educational drive to protect consumers and uphold peace, he urged the public to report fraud via shortcode 15040 or verify SIM card registration through *106#.“This campaign is about protecting not just individual users, but also Tanzania’s integrity and security,” Mr Mwango said.