TCRA warns against sharing manipulated information
DODOMA: THE Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has issued a stern warning to the public about the dangers of disinformation and misinformation during the ongoing campaign season.
The authority expressed concern that individuals with malicious intent may exploit Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to alter images, videos, or audio, of politicians to mislead the public, sow confusion, or damage a candidate’s reputation.
TCRA Head of Communications and Public Relations, Mr Rolf Kibaja, told the `Daily News’ in Dodoma on Tuesday that as Tanzania heads towards the October 29 General Election, AI-generated content targeting politicians could be rapidly circulated to serve personal or political agendas.
“For example, AI can be used to fabricate statements, making it appear as though a politician said something they never did, with the intent to mislead the public,” he explained.
He urged the public to avoid sharing such videos or audio clips containing controversial or misleading messages and instead, delete them immediately from their devices.
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“Imagine content deliberately designed to discourage voters from electing a particular candidate or falsely claiming that a candidate has withdrawn from the election. Such misinformation can create confusion during this critical time,” he warned.
Mr Kibaja also reminded citizens that sharing manipulated content, whether knowingly or unknowingly, may constitute a criminal offence under Tanzanian law.
He urged everyone to exercise extreme caution when receiving and forwarding information, especially during this sensitive electoral period.
In addition, Mr Kibaja reaffirmed TCRA’s commitment to promoting fair competition and economic efficiency in the communications sector, protecting consumer interests, ensuring the financial viability of service providers and expanding access to regulated services for all, including low-income, rural and disadvantaged communities.
He added that the regulator is also intensifying efforts to raise public awareness about the communications sector, including consumers’ rights and obligations, complaint and dispute resolution processes and the Authority’s duties, all while prioritising environmental protection.
Established under Act No 12 of 2003, the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority is responsible for regulating the electronic and postal communication sectors across the country.
