Singapore passes laws to combat fake news

Singapore on Wednesday passed laws to combat fake news that will allow authorities to order the removal of content despite fierce criticism from tech giants, the media and rights groups. 

The new laws give government powers to order social media sites like Facebook and Twitter to put warnings next to posts that authorities deem to be false and in extreme cases get them taken



down.

If an action is judged to be malicious and damaging to Singapore's interests, companies could be hit with fines of up to 735,000 US dollars. Additionally, individuals could face jail terms of up to 10 years.

The laws have sparked outrage from rights groups who fear they could stifle online discussion.