Government warns public to verify migration information amid surge of false online content

Government has urged South Africans to verify migration-related information before sharing it, warning that false and misleading content circulating online is undermining public trust and threatening social cohesion.

Why officials are concerned

The warning responds to growing circulation of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation on social media, messaging apps and unofficial websites, particularly around migration issues. Government said South Africa manages migration through established laws, policies and institutions while balancing national interests, human rights, public safety and regional commitments.

Definitions and risks

The government explained the differences between three types of misleading content: misinformationfalse or inaccurate information shared without intent to deceive; disinformationdeliberately created and spread false information intended to mislead; and malinformationgenuine information used out of context, altered or selectively presented to cause harm.

Officials warned that unverified information often spreads rapidly during periods of heightened public interest, especially when paired with manipulated images, edited videos, deepfakes or emotionally charged material. False claims about migrants, border management, deportations, documentation processes, access to public services or law enforcement operations could inflame tensions and undermine confidence in public institutions, the government said.

What the public was told to do

Government called on both South African citizens and migrants living in the country to act responsibly when consuming and sharing migration-related information and to verify content before sharing. It encouraged relying on bona fide media organisations, official government communication channels and trusted fact-checking platforms.

“Rumours, anonymous voice notes, screenshots without context and unverified social media posts should not be regarded as reliable sources of information.”

The government also warned that many fake websites and misleading online posts are intentionally designed to manipulate public opinion and to encourage the rapid spread of false information.

Public responsibility

“Every person within the border of South Africa has a responsibility to communicate honestly, responsibly and respectfully, and to contribute to a society informed by facts rather than falsehoods.”

Government said it remains committed to ensuring the public has access to accurate, credible and verified information.