JAYAPURA – The Papua Provincial Communications and Informatics Office identified 12 hoaxes related to Papua between January and July 2026. The false information primarily involved issues concerning security, government affairs, social assistance, and the misuse of regional officials' names.

Head of the Papua Provincial Communications and Informatics Office, Jeri Agus Yudianto, said that the spread of hoaxes remains a challenge in the digital space. Therefore, the public is urged to be more careful in verifying information before sharing it.

"Every member of the public has a responsibility to help maintain a healthy digital environment. Do not easily believe information whose source is unclear, and make it a habit to fact-check information before sharing it with others," Jeri said.

He explained that the identified hoaxes included claims concerning the arrest of members of the Armed Criminal Group and foreign nationals, an alleged plan to relocate one million Israeli citizens to Papua, the presence of foreign military bases in Papua, and misleading information regarding public services.

In addition, they also found false information concerning a Bank Papua prize draw, assistance distributed through WhatsApp messages claiming to be from the Governor of Papua, alleged assistance worth IDR147 billion, fake social media accounts impersonating the Governor and Deputy Governor of Papua, and reports of a special public holiday to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final.

According to Jeri, the Communications and Informatics Office continues to strengthen its monitoring of the digital space and clarify inaccurate information. These efforts are accompanied by digital literacy education to help the public become more discerning in evaluating information.

"The public is also encouraged to obtain information from official government channels, credible mass media outlets, and available fact-checking services. Think before you share is a simple step that can help stop the spread of hoaxes," he said.

He expressed hope that collaboration among the government, media, communities, community leaders, and all citizens would help keep Papua's digital space healthy, productive, and free from the spread of disinformation. ***