Fake news is intentionally published untrue statements whose main purpose is to gain financial gain or influence. Although fake news is not new, with the rise of the internet, especially social media, its number, distribution channels and speed are increasing.

Why is it worth spreading fake news?

• Often, fake news is not consciously spread by people, they just believe it to be real and share it for information.
• Mostly however, fake news comes to light because someone has a financial interest in it. It's important to know that when you click on such an article, you are financially benefiting the owner of the portal containing the fake news.

Interestingly, the Hungarian legal framework had to be amended during the coronavirus epidemic due to the increased number of fake news. In the Criminal Code, the relevant provisions are found under the heading "Spreading of scare stories". Since the amendment, it is now possible to punish scare stories (fake news) spread on the internet. The offence is only committed if someone intentionally spreads a scare story, i.e. the offence can only be committed intentionally. The ban therefore only applies to knowingly untrue (or distorted) statements of fact, not to critical opinions. With this amendment, the legislator sought to tackle news portals that make a commercial profit.