The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has warned the public against using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital tools to create and circulate false or manipulated information.
In a public notice 2026, MACRA said it was concerned about the increasing spread of false statements, rumours and reports through social media and other online platforms.
The regulator said some of the content is intended to cause public fear or alarm, disturb public peace or unlawfully damage the reputation of individuals.
MACRA has particularly cautioned against spreading AI-generated misinformation, warning that such conduct could attract civil and criminal liability where it causes fear, disrupts public peace or damages people’s reputations.
The authority has also reminded the public that Section 60 of the Penal Code (Cap. 7:01) criminalises the publication of false statements, rumours or reports likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb public peace.
“Members of the public are strongly advised to desist from creating, publishing or disseminating such content,” MACRA said.
The regulator further said it, together with other relevant authorities, is taking lawful measures to identify and trace people responsible for unlawful publications.
MACRA has therefore urged members of the public to verify information before sharing or republishing it.
