Nepal Introduces Stringent Social Media Bill to Combat Fake News, Deepfakes, and Cybercrime
Kathmandu, Nepal – The Nepalese government has introduced a comprehensive social media bill aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation, deepfakes, and various forms of cybercrime. The proposed legislation, tabled in the National Assembly, outlines a range of penalties for individuals and organizations found to be in violation of its provisions. The bill’s primary focus is to regulate the use and operation of social media platforms within the country, addressing concerns about the potential for misuse and its impact on national security, public order, and individual rights.
One of the key aspects of the bill targets the creation and use of fake identities on social media platforms. Individuals found guilty of using anonymous or fake profiles to disseminate false or misleading information could face imprisonment of up to three months, a fine of up to 50,000 Nepali rupees, or both. The bill further prohibits the spread of information that could jeopardize national sovereignty, territorial integrity, or national interests. Violations of this nature carry significantly harsher penalties, with potential imprisonment of up to five years and fines reaching 1.5 million Nepali rupees. Public officials and those receiving state benefits found guilty of such offenses face an additional 50% increase in penalties.
The proposed legislation also addresses a range of other online offenses, including the spread of obscene content, cyberstalking, hacking, phishing, and sextortion. Posting or sharing obscene images, audio, or videos on social media could result in three months imprisonment, a fine of up to 50,000 Nepali rupees, or both. Similarly, spreading obscene or false information or propagating distorted content can lead to a two-year prison sentence, a fine of up to 300,000 Nepali rupees, or both. The bill also targets the creation and dissemination of deepfake videos, defined as content produced using artificial intelligence to manipulate a person’s appearance or voice to spread misinformation or damage their reputation. Those found guilty of creating or sharing deepfakes face up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 300,000 Nepali rupees, or both.
Recognizing the potential harm caused by these online offenses, the bill incorporates provisions for victims to seek compensation from offenders. Claims for compensation must be filed within three months of the victim becoming aware of the offense. Furthermore, the bill introduces regulations for social media companies operating within Nepal. Companies are required to obtain government approval before operating and face hefty penalties ranging from 2.5 million to 10 million Nepali rupees if they violate these regulations or allow their platforms to be used for illegal activities such as promoting anti-national views, defamation, or privacy violations. Individuals who fail to comply with these requirements could face fines of up to 500,000 Nepali rupees.
The bill specifically prohibits hate speech, defined as content that incites violence or hatred against individuals or groups, and mandates punishment for those engaging in such activities. Cyberstalking, which includes false accusations, online surveillance, and privacy violations, carries a penalty of up to three years imprisonment, a fine of 500,000 Nepali rupees, or both. Hacking into social media accounts and stealing information is punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of 1.5 million Nepali rupees. Phishing and imposter scams using social media platforms carry the same penalties. Similarly, sextortion or any form of extortion conducted through social media is punishable by up to three years imprisonment and a fine of 1.5 million Nepali rupees.
The proposed legislation represents a significant step by the Nepalese government to regulate the online sphere and address growing concerns about the misuse of social media. The bill’s comprehensive approach aims to protect individuals from online harassment, defamation, and misinformation while safeguarding national security and public order. The government’s intention is to create a safer and more responsible online environment for all citizens. The stringent penalties outlined in the bill are intended to deter individuals and organizations from engaging in harmful online activities and promote responsible social media usage. The bill now awaits further deliberation and approval by the National Assembly before becoming law.