JAYAPURA - The Papua Provincial Government through the Communication and Informatics Department urges residents in Papua to be aware of fake news (hoaxes) related to issues or potential tsunamis or anything, as a result of the earthquake that hit Jayapura City.

The head of the Communication and Informatics Department of Papua, Jeri Agus Yudianto, even asked residents to check, before forwarding messages related to the earthquake.

"We implore residents not to easily believe information that is not yet clear about its truth".

"Because there is some BMKG information cited but added to make residents even more panicked. Once again, check the truth of the information first before forwarding the information on social media," said Jeri, in Jayapura, Thursday (16/2/2023).

Jeri still said, there are some dictions that are usually used by certain people when making fake news. This, he continued, deserves attention so that residents do not receive false information and hoaxes.

"Potentially incorrect diction is for example 'spread this news' or other diction such as inviting many residents to evacuate. Even though this earthquake cannot be predicted when it occurs, "he explained.

Meanwhile, to avoid fake news, Jeri also invites residents to follow verified social media accounts, be it belonging to the local government, TNI/Polri, BBMKG, BPBD and others.

"Including following the development of news from trusted media, because media colleagues are part of the literacy that residents are concerned about," he said. ***