REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- Cyber Crime National Police found hundreds of provocative contens, containing hate speech, fake news, and also sentiment on tribal affiliation, religion, race, and societal groups (SARA) during a month of cyber patrol. National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Muhammad Iqbal said after sorting out the findings they detected 300 provocative contents.

"In a month, there are 300 provocative contents that we found and until today, for almost two months, there are 642," said Iqbal on Tuesday (March 6).

Iqbal said everyday 10 contents were being investigated by the police. Some of the contents are observed, blocked, and also explored for further investigation.

National Police step to combat fake news increased following the arrest to seven members of The Family Muslim Cyber Army (MCA). Family MCA is the group allegedly spread fake news and provocative issues related to SARA through social medias and chat applications.

The group was said mostly spread fake news related to Indonesia Communist Party (PKI) and ulemas attack. Family MCA was suspected sending the virus to groups or people who are considered enemies. The virus damaged the receivers gadget or electronic device.

Meanwhile, Information technology expert (IT) Ismail Fahmi doubted the arrest of MCA members will reduce circulation of false news. Moreover, Indonesia will hold regional elections (Pilkada) in 2018 and also presidential elections in 2019.

"I'm not sure fake news from MCA will subside due to there's more potential for growth because this is the political season and also the presidential candidate is already presidential candidate again," said Ismail.

He urged the police to combat fake news from pro to the government groups. 

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