A new law aimed at tackling cybercrime, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Bill 2024, has sparked public discussion, particularly after it was signed into law by President William Ruto.
The Bill, sponsored by Wajir East MP Aden Mohamed, introduces significant changes to how online content and communication are regulated in the country. The core of the Bill is its focus on expanding the government's ability to restrict online access.
The Bill proposes giving the National Computer and Cybercrimes Co-ordination Committee (NC4) the power to issue directives to make certain websites and applications inaccessible within the country.
This power can be used when a website or application is found to promote illegal activities, child pornography, terrorism, extreme religious and cultic practices, or inappropriate sexual content involving minors.
The new law significantly broadens the scope of cyber harassment offences under Section 27 of the Act. This targets individuals who communicate with a person, or anyone connected to them, in a way that is likely to cause violence against them, property damage, or a detrimental effect on the person.
The same penalty applies if the communication is of an "indecent or grossly offensive nature" that will affect other persons. This serious offence now carries a massive fine not exceeding Ksh. 20 million, or imprisonment for up to ten years, or both.
The Bill also amends Section 30 to expand the scope of the phishing offence, specifically including action against identity theft committed through email or phone calls.
The law targets anyone who creates or operates a website, or sends a message through a computer system, "with the intention to induce the user... to disclose personal information for an unlawful purpose."This offence will attract a fine not exceeding Ksh. 300,000, or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or both.
Tags: Aden Mohamed Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Bill 2024 Cybersecurity William Ruto Editor's Pick
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