<![CDATA[The spread of fake news (hoaks) on social media has become a serious threat to the stability of public security and order in the city of Medan. This study aims to analyze criminal liability for the perpetrators of spreading hoax news and examine law enforcement efforts carried out by the Medan Kota Besar Resort Police (Polrestabes). The research method used is empirical juridical with a legal sociology approach. The data source was obtained through interviews with investigators from the Medan Police Satreskrim and a study of police report documents related to ITE crimes. The results of the study show that the criminal liability of the perpetrator is based on the fulfillment of the element of intentionality and the distribution of misleading information as stipulated in Article 28 paragraph (1) of the ITE Law. The Medan Police face obstacles in handling cases, including the anonymity of the perpetrators on social media and the limitations of forensic digital expert witnesses at the local level. Efforts made include preventive measures through cyber patrols and repressive actions through an investigation process that prioritizes electronic evidence. This study concludes that strengthening coordination between the police and the community in digital literacy is the main key in reducing the number of hoaxes in Medan City.]]>
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