Content creation can help spread insider knowledge, but what happens when you create a hoax just to boost your views?
Earlier this week, a Taiwanese content creator claimed he visited the hostel of job scam victims in Cambodia, where he was later “kidnapped” by the guards, before resurfacing the next day via another live video and said that he escaped the dangerous clutches of the kidnappers.
“I was tortured, electrocuted and they took away all my money.” he said, revealing his partially shaved hair and torn clothes.
He was later arrested with another Taiwanese man by the Cambodian police for defamation, and it was confirmed that the kidnapping and assault were merely an act. He “wrote and directed” his movie, and staged the entire event.
The Cambodia China Times reported that both content creators are going to spend the next 2 years of their lives in jail.
Police found masks, military uniforms, fake guns, fake blood, and other types of equipment with the content creators, which were believed to have been used for the “filming” of his kidnapping and assault.
At the press conference, the men took the opportunity to kneel and apologise to the Cambodians for their mistakes, but the police immediately got them back up on their feet.
“No, Cambodia is not scary”
Knowing that his fate is sealed, he also took the time to clarify that Cambodia is not like how many have perceived it to be – dangerous.
“Cambodia is a beautiful country and great for tourism. There are no scams, drug traffickings or kidnappings here. I am sorry for my video. It was entirely a hoax.”
The pair also have to pay a fine of KHR 4 million (approximately RM4,700) for their crimes.
In a statement, the Cambodian police also said they took this issue seriously and there will be no leniency.
“If we forgive them, it’s giving chances to others to come over and create fake stories about the country and the authorities.”
The pair visited Cambodia solely to stage the event. There’s always a cause & effect to something and hopefully, this will serve as a reminder to other content creators out there to be wary of what they share.
