Tanzania sounds alarm over cybercrime, fraudulent social media accounts

DODOMA: The government has issued an alarm over the growing trend of cybercriminals involving the creation of fraudulent social media accounts impersonating trusted public institutions.

These accounts are being used to spread false, sensational content designed to incite fear and confusion among the public.

In an official statement released by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, who also serves as the Government Spokesperson, Gerson Msigwa, the public was cautioned about the deliberate spread of misinformation through social media platforms.

“These accounts are being used to publish misleading content to incite fear and confusion among citizens,” the statement read.

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The statement also stressed that citizens should use social media responsibly and verify any suspicious or alarming information with the relevant authorities before sharing it further.

“The government strongly warns those involved in these criminal acts. Legal actions are already underway to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement emphasized.

According to the statement, citizens are also encouraged to follow the verified accounts of the Government Spokesperson on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook for accurate information and to seek clarification on any matters of public concern.