Transport authorities have been forced to step in and debunk viral reports that a nighttime curfew would be enforced for drivers over the age of 60, after fake details about the alleged rule were widely circulated online.
Multiple fake publications, many believed to be generated by AI, reported that drivers in the senior age bracket would be banned from driving on Western Australian roads between 10pm and 5am. Exceptions would only be permitted in case of an emergency, medical needs or for special permit holders. Other false articles claimed elderly drivers would soon face tougher tougher licence restrictions.
However, after panic ensued, the state's Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) issued a statement denying the reports and explaining they were false.
"You may have seen social media posts and videos that claim a nighttime driving curfew will be introduced in Australia for drivers over the age of 60. This is false," the department said. "This fabricated news has been shared extensively online and resulted in distress for those who believe the claims are true.
"The claims are not true."
The reports suggested the curfew was allegedly set to come into effect at some point this year and was in a bid to improve road safety, pointing to studies that purported showed elderly drivers were increasing collision rates on state roads.
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