For the past days, netizens have been reading articles about Facebook's plans regarding the disrupting fake news being disseminated in the social network. German politicians, on the other hand, seems to have a better idea on this problem. They are thinking of imposing Facebook a €500,000 fine for each offending post that will not be taken down.
Germany Plans To Create A Law That Will Levy Fines On Facebook
According to Business Insider, the legislative of the Germany government is preparing to introduce a law that orders Facebook to compensate those who become victims of fake news. In an interview, Thomas Opperman, the parliamentary chairman of the SPD, said that the social network should face sanctions if it fails to handle the spread of false news story. Furthermore, he also said, "If, after appropriate examination, Facebook does not delete the offending message within 24 hours, it should expect individual fines of up to €500,000." That amounts to $522,000.
Facebook And Other Social Networks Should Set Up A 'Legal Protection Unit' in Germany
Germany takes serious action against defamation with their bills strictly being implemented. Forbes' recent article about the issue talks about Opperman adding that Facebook and other social media should set up local offices in the country in order to respond faster. This way, those who are greatly affected by the news can immediately communicate with them or file complaints.
What's The Major Deal About The 'Fake News' Issue?
Apparently, this is not the first time that Germany demanded something like this from Facebook. They have already conducted an investigation over the social network's lack of action against online hate speech in November. But this time, the move is a precautionary measure against the possible effect of fake news post to upcoming German parliamentary elections in 2017. Add to this, are the alleged reports that Moscow intelligence was behind the hacking of the Democratic National Convention which caused the leaks of thousands of emails of key aides to Hilary Clinton.
Although Mark Zuckerberg dismissed the rumors that it could have influenced the U.S. elections, the public's claim is strong. In fact, strong enough for him to include a fact-checking feature in Facebook in the future.
