Doha: A fake image showing a steep rise in some traffic fines is being circulated on social media channels, especially among WhatsApp groups. It also showed some new fines, which is not in force currently.
Now Qatar Traffic Department has come out with an alert saying that the image being circulated is fake and asked residents not to believe such forwards being shared on social media regarding new fines for traffic violations.
The department in a tweet in Arabic mentioned (roughly translates to), "Regarding what is being circulated about an amendment in traffic violations is incorrect, and we hope that everyone gets news from correct sources through official accounts on social networking sites."
A doctored image stating new traffic fines, claiming that it is from Qatar Traffic department, is being shared on social media where exorbitant rates like QR5,000 is mentioned for new violations like listening to loud music in the car.
It also falsely states that smoking inside the car will attract a fine of QR2,000.
The doctored image includes MOI logo along with that of the traffic department to make it look authentic.
Authorities have repeatedly warned people against spreading rumours without verifying the news. It is always better to check the source of the news or else get in touch with authorities using their social media handles to confirm the information.
Many websites and social media accounts copy information without verifying the authenticity and even after realizing that the information is false, never bothers to clarify it for the readers.
