Following the scrutiny over Cambridge Analytica’s security scandal and Facebook’s poor handling of fake news, Papua New Guinea is shutting down the website within its borders for one month.

Social Network on thin ice

Following the scrutiny over Cambridge Analytica’s security scandal and Facebook’s poor handling of fake news, Papua New Guinea is shutting down the website within its borders for one month.

Minister of Communication Sam Basil has stated the main purpose of the shutdown will be to identify users posting pornography and false information.

With only 10% of the country’s population having access to the internet, Papa New Guinea is leading the charge on online service regulation.

We’ll make our own!

Interestingly, Mr. Basil had a bold suggestion in saying, “[they] can also look at the possibility of creating a new social network site for PNG citizens to use with genuine profiles as well.”

The thought may not be as far-fetched as it first sounds. According to Basil, “we can gather our local applications developers to create a site that is more conducive for Papua New Guineans…”

While the month-long ban may not have a lasting impact, it points to an increasing caution among governments when it comes to Facebook's influence.

Do you think Papa New Guinea could begin their own social app? What do you think the temporary ban means? Let us know in the comment section.