Social media is essential to modern life, allowing users to express opinions, share information, and engage with others. However, with Nepal’s Social Media Bill 2081, failing to follow the rules could lead to heavy fines or even imprisonment. If you’re an active user, you must know what you should NOT do to avoid legal trouble.
This blog breaks down the major social media violations, the associated fines and penalties, and how to use it safely without risking legal consequences.
DO NOT Spread Misinformation or Fake News
Penalty: Up to NPR 5 lakh fine
Posting or sharing false, misleading, or unverified information can result in heavy fines.
- This includes fake news, manipulated images, and false claims that could cause panic, defamation, or harm to others.
- Even forwarding unverified news in group chats or reposting viral misinformation can get you into legal trouble.
- Always fact-check before sharing anything that could mislead others.
DO NOT Engage in Hate Speech or Cyberbullying
Penalty: Up to NPR 3 lakh fine or 2 years imprisonment
Hate speech and cyberbullying are serious offenses under Nepal’s new regulations.
- Avoid making racist, sexist, religiously offensive, or defamatory comments about individuals or groups.
- Harassing, insulting, or threatening someone online—even as a joke—could land you in legal trouble.
- Trolling, doxxing, or spreading personal attacks on social media can be considered cyberbullying.
DO NOT Share Private or Sensitive Information Without Consent
Penalty: Up to NPR 2 lakh fine
Social media users must respect privacy laws and never post another person’s details without permission.
- This includes sharing addresses, phone numbers, bank details, or private conversations without the owner’s consent.
- Leaking private photos or confidential business information can result in severe legal consequences.
DO NOT Defame or Make False Accusations
Penalty: Up to NPR 2.5 lakh fine
Spreading false accusations or damaging someone’s reputation can be costly.
- You could face serious legal action if you post defamatory content that ruins someone’s professional or personal image.
- If accused falsely, the victim can sue you for damages.
- Ensure facts back your statements before making any allegations.
DO NOT Engage in Cyberstalking or Online Harassment
Penalty: NPR 3 lakh fine or 2 years imprisonment
Online stalking and harassment have strict legal consequences in Nepal.
- Repeatedly messaging or tracking someone’s online activity without their consent is considered stalking.
- Creating fake accounts to harass, threaten, or manipulate someone can result in severe penalties.
- Sending unwanted messages, spreading rumors, or publicly humiliating someone online can lead to imprisonment.
DO NOT Operate a Social Media Platform Without a License
Penalty: Up to NPR 2.5 million fine
You may need a government license to run a social media page, forum, or platform.
- This applies to large pages, online communities, and digital forums that function as social platforms.
- Failure to register could result in high fines and suspension of your online activities.
DO NOT Ignore Government Requests for Data or Content Removal
Penalty: Potential platform restrictions and further legal action
The government has the authority to monitor social media activities and request the removal of illegal content.
- Failure to comply could lead to further penalties or legal consequences if asked to remove illegal content.
- Social media platforms that do not moderate content responsibly may face restrictions or bans.
How to Stay Safe and Use Social Media Responsibly
To avoid these fines and legal troubles, here’s what you should do:
- Verify Before Posting: Ensure your news, claims, or images are authentic.
- Respect Others’ Privacy: Never share personal information without permission.
- Be Mindful of Your Words: Think before you post to avoid hate speech or defamation.
- Report and Block Harassers: Report them immediately if you encounter cyberbullying or threats.
- Know the Law: Stay updated on Nepal’s latest social media regulations to ensure compliance.
Conclusion
Social media is an excellent platform for self-expression, but it comes with serious responsibilities. Nepal’s Social Media Regulation Bill enforces strict penalties for misuse, harassment, privacy violations, and misinformation.
By understanding what NOT to do, users can protect themselves from legal trouble while using them safely and responsibly.
Source: Social Media Bill 2081
