The Georgian National Communications Commission has called on all mobile operators to prevent dissemination of misleading SMS messages in relation to the coronavirus pandemic. GNCC has already instructed all authorised entities under its regulation to act swiftly over this issue. Specifically, any unauthorised parties who misuse mobile communication services to send misleading information to members of the public shall immediately have SMS (A2P) services restricted by the authorised organisations.

On 16 March, the Government of Georgia sent out recommendations and information to all members of the public in the following form: “GOVERNMENT: maintain hygiene norms, do not leave your house without necessity, persons over 60 years of age should take particular care, maintain self-isolation if necessary, in case of high temperature and coughing contact your doctor. Stay healthy. www.stopcov.ge www.moh.gov.ge, emergency services 112.” Certain parties have used this message maliciously. Within two hours of the aforementioned message being sent by the Government, two fake SMS messages were sent in the name of the Government and the Ministry of Health, aiming to deceive and further antagonise the public. 

In the current circumstances, it is vitally important for mobile communication companies to react swiftly to prevent the spread of misleading messages and inappropriate social adverts. If the authorised entities fail to restrict the spread of misleading information, GNCC will take strict measures against companies under its regulation, including revoking their authorisation, if necessary.

Due to the significance and sensitivity of the subject, it is critically important to ensure that the population only receives accurate information from official sources. All companies regulated by GNCC are therefore instructed to deliver information and recommendations regarding the coronavirus to members of the public from official bodies only.