Tencent: "The figure '24,589 deaths' from novel coronavirus is a manipulated photo"

Published 12 Feb.2020 10:47(KST)

Photo of Tencent's 'QQ.com' 'Epidemic Dashboard' reported by 'Taiwan News.' Tencent stated that the above photo was manipulated. Photo by Taiwan News broadcast screen capture

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Seong-yeol] Chinese internet company Tencent has clarified that a photo showing the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia) as 24,589 was manipulated.

On the 7th, Tencent stated in an official statement, "Currently, manipulated epidemic dashboard images containing false information that we have never announced are spreading across various social media platforms."

Tencent explained, "The 'epidemic dashboard' of Tencent News provides real-time data received from China's National Health Commission and various municipal health commissions across China," adding, "It not only informs users about new developments related to Wuhan pneumonia and provides the latest information but also fact-checks rumors based on information shared from over 170 authoritative sources within China."

They continued, "Tencent uses technology for good intentions and cannot help but be disappointed by such immoral behavior," and stated, "Tencent will not tolerate the dissemination of inaccurate information and fake news, especially during sensitive times like now."

Furthermore, they said, "We reserve all legal rights and remedies related to this issue," urging, "Therefore, we call on those who abuse our services to immediately cease the production and spread of false information."

Earlier, on the 5th (local time), the Taiwanese English news outlet 'Taiwan News' reported an article titled "Tencent accidentally leaks actual death toll of Wuhan virus" in the afternoon.

The article stated that Tencent's portal site QQ.com announced the number of deaths from Wuhan pneumonia as 24,589, which is more than 90 times higher than the number announced by the Chinese government.