The Goa Police have advised people to refrain from circulating details of patients ; a day after the government ordered an inquiry into the leakage of the confidential lab report . Details of the first seven COVID-19 patients were leaked into public domain on Thursday . This was followed by another sheet with seven more names , details of which were later said to be fake . “ In this time of crisis , it is important that we take care not to spread news that will create alarm in the society or lead to panic . We must refrain from irresponsibly posting patient details which is not only illegal but cases trauma and prejudice to the families . If there is any query or doubt regarding authenticity of any post , instead of sharing , please contact 112 for guidance , ” Inspector General of Police Jaspal Singh said in an appeal message to the people . Soon after the confidential lab papers had gone viral , Health Minister Vishwajit Rane warned of action while also requesting the people to not indulge in breach of law . “ Confidential lab reports of GMC and DHS are being currently circulated by many on WhatsApp and social media platforms . This act is in violation of patients private confidentiality and I request you all to not indulge in leaking or sharing any such information , ” he tweeted . If such act is repeated or continued by any individual , Rane said , the government is authorised to take stern action against him / her under the provisions of the law . “ This is a breach of law and shall be dealt with serious punishments , ” the minister had posted on Twitter . An inquiry , probing how the confidential paper leaked outside the hospital , is underway . ;