Macra warns on illicit AI use

The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has warned the public against using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital tools to create and spread false or manipulated information.

In a public notice issued today on Friday, September 18, 2026, MACRA said it was concerned about the increasing circulation of false statements, rumours and reports through social media and other online platforms.

The regulator said such content, particularly information intended to cause public fear or alarm, disturb public peace or unlawfully damage the reputation of individuals, may attract legal consequences, including civil and criminal liability.

MACRA has further cited Section 60 of the Penal Code (Cap. 7:01), which criminalises the publication of false statements, rumours or reports likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb public peace.

Meanwhile,the authority has urged members of the public to verify information before sharing or republishing it, warning that MACRA and other relevant authorities are taking lawful measures to identify and trace people responsible for unlawful publications.