Parliament may criminalise internet manipulation

Striving to tackle disinformation, war propaganda and better safeguard the information space, the Lithuanian Parliament intends to take action against internet manipulation.

MP Laurynas Kasčiūnas, chair of the Seimas Committee on National Security and Defence, together with colleagues has registered amendments to the Criminal Code and the Law on the Provision of Information to the Public. The amendments would criminalise internet manipulation when online content aimed against the state of Lithuania is artificially boosted and promoted. Punishment for this would vary from a fine or arrest to a custodial sentence of up to 3 years. Individuals and entities would be held to account.