''' ASIAN *FAKE NEWS* ALTERS '''

ASIAN push to crack down on 'fake news' sparks alarm.

Inflammatory stories masquerading as real ones pose a particularly toxic threat in Asian countries with long-standing religious and ethnic divides but - Promises by some regional leaders to tackle the problem carry equal menace.

Borrowing from US President Donald Trump's political playbook, government heads with an authoritarian streak are using the mantra of 'fake news' to shield themselves from negative media coverage -

And push legislation that critics say is aimed at more stifling dissent, than punishing fabrication.

The problem they profess to be addressing a genuine one, Internet penetration is now so extensive, even in the poorest areas-

That fake stories dressed up as a fact can go viral on social media overnight and reach massive audience with often dire consequences.

In India last year, seven people were killed by mob after a false story spread on WhatsApp that they were child-traffickers, while in Myanmar, doctored photos and bogus reports shared on Facebook have fueled the persecution of Rohingya Muslims.

A number of Asian leaders have tapped into the resulting public concern and launched campaigns that claim to target malign rumor-mongers but, experts say, actually serve to turn the screws on critical media and political opponents.

''The vague notion of ''fake news'' which has been used and abused by US President Donald Trump, is a boon for governments-

Who want to muzzle over curious independent voices,'' Daniel B, head of the Asia-Pacific desk at nation'' - has expertly accused news outlets critical of his deadly war on drugs of peddling fake news. [Agencies]

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