Breaking news should not break ‘setho’
Friday, April 05, 2024 | 190 Views |
The expeditious proliferation of news through social media channels often outpaces official verification processes, paving the path for misinformation to spread unchecked. The recent tragedy underscores the necessity for restraint and sensitivity in the wake of such calamities.
President Mokgweetsi Masisi has issued a stern warning against the way the news of the accident broke out on social media platforms. Addressing Molepolole residents, Masisi expressed deep sorrow for the lives lost and also highlighted in his address how people were inhumane and insensitive by rushing to break the news on social media. “I see it fit to rebuke some of the things. I want us to all respect the families that have lost family members in that accident. Is it okay for us to report first the passing of these 45 souls on social media as if they were just animals?” he asked.
That sounds like good news. But the report also warns that this may simply be because our digital economy is still young, not because we are safe. As more people shop, bank and pay online, criminals will follow.We Batswana do not need a report to tell us that danger is real. Many of us have heard of or fallen victim to KYC scams. A caller impersonates your bank or mobile money provider. They say they need to “verify” your account. They ask...