KKD: News On Alleged RM500 Aid For Senior Citizens From The Social Welfare Department Is FAKE

The Communications and Digital Ministry (KKD) has denied fake news that has gone viral on social media yesterday which alleges that the Social Welfare Department (JKM) is giving out a special RM500 aid for senior citizens in 2023. Issued by KKD’s Rapid Response Team (PRP), the public is advised to not be easily influenced or spread unverified information without first checking the legitimacy of the source.

As reported by Bernama, KKD further stressed that accurate information on any assistance issued by JKM is available only through its official website here. Previously, JKM issued a statement on Friday (29 December 2022) confirming that the viral message on a “Bantuan Warga Emas Bagi Tahun 2023” is fake news.

Taking to its official Facebook page, JKM shared a screenshot of the fake news which was shared through the popular messaging app WhatsApp. The viral message includes a fake post that misused a photo of the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM), Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri as well as a link that most likely leads to a phishing site created by irresponsible scammers.

In the Facebook post, both the KPWKM Minister and her Deputy Minister, Aiman Athirah Sabu reminded Malaysians to not share any news if they are not sure of its authenticity. Accordingly, KKD’s PRP team also echoed the same message in their fake news alert, saying that the public should always make an initial check by referring to the official website or social media of the related ministry, department or agency to obtain authentic and up-to-date information.

So, what do you guys think of the increased spread of fake news in Malaysia lately? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

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