By Aaron Chilala, MANA
Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), through Malawi Computer Emergency Response Team (MwCERT) has issued strong legal sanctions to the general public from committing cybercrime offences in relation to the Coronavirus.
The development follows a rapid spread and distribution of fake news and information related to Coronavirus posted and shared on social media platforms.
In a press release communicated on Tuesday, the body warned that distribution of personal data without the consent of the data subject violates the right to privacy under Section 21 (c) of the Constitution.
“In addition, it is also an offence under Section 84 (8) of the Electronic Transaction and Cyber Security Act, 2016, which prohibits the communication, disclosure and transmission of personal data without authorisation from the subject data,” reads part of the statement.
The communications body further advised the general public to be alert of cyber criminals who are exploiting the Coronavirus outbreak by sending fake emails with dangerous links.
“Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails and attachments in relation to COVID-19, use trusted sources for up-to-date fact-based information about COVID-19 and desist from revealing personal or information in response to email soliciting such information.
“The general public should also refrain from posting personal information related to COVID-19 victims, desist from sharing any unverified details on the virus and report any incident of cyber related attack,” reads part of the statement.
Currently, government has instituted several measures in relation to the prevention of further transmission of Coronavirus as the country has so far registered 16 such cases and two deaths.
