KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness says new legislation is needed to create a safe online space where the freedom and rights of all Jamaicans can be respected, and the integrity of information and transactions are secure.

Holness was speaking after a recently-concluded meeting of the National Security Council. His statement follows a recent declaration that his Government will be taking steps to begin clamping down on the proliferation of false information on social media platforms.

READ: ‘Fake news’ clampdown: PM says he will no longer be silent on use of social media to spread misinformation

The prime minister said the council discussed the legislative gaps relating to cybercrimes and the misuse of social media platforms which has created new threats and challenges to the safety and security of citizens and the state.

Acknowledging the positive and powerful transformational impact of cyber, artificial intelligence and social media on the economy and society, Holness said the National Security Council members were equally seized of the potential for misuse of the technology by intentional malicious actors, as well as inadvertently by misguided users.

He noted that there has been an alarming increase in cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure, businesses, and individuals.

The prime minister said the threats range from public mischief, reputational damage, harassment and bullying, and extortion, to attacks on the banking and financial systems, and state entities.

“I underscored to the National Security Council the importance of striking a balance between protecting freedom of expression and ensuring the responsible and ethical use of technology,” Holness said.

The prime minister said the council also noted the need for an intense public relations campaign where the public can be informed of the dangers as well as the good use of social media and technology for their personal benefit and national development.