Macra calls for joint efforts to combat cyber attacks
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (Macra) has called for concerted efforts in protecting people, especially children, online.
Macra Director of Economic Regulation Andrew Nyirenda made the call in Blantyre Monday as the communications regulatory body marked this year’s Safer Internet Day (SID).
“The digital world has no borders and if we are to ensure a better digital space for all of us, especially for young users, there is a need for multi-stakeholder collaborations and we all need to work as a team with the common goal of online safety,” Nyirenda said.
He emphasised the importance of observing the day amid growing concern over safety issues online.
He said Macra will ensure a safe digital space for all consumers of ICT services, including children and young adults.
“That is why it is important for us to raise awareness on emerging cyber issues and reflect on current concerns from cyber-bullying, social networking, cyber hygiene, misinformation and tips meant to keep everyone safe online,” Nyirenda said.
Head of Digital Forensics and Cyber Crimes Unit at the National Police Headquarters in Lilongwe, Gladwel Kubwalo, said police continue to record many cases of cybercrimes ranging from child pornography and bullying.
“Currently, we are using the Electronic Transactions and Cyber Security Act of 2016 to investigate and deal with such crimes. Let me warn people who are involved in such criminal activities that they risk serving jail terms of over 15 years plus paying over K10 million in fines,” Kubwalo said.
SID is a landmark global event which is commemorated across 180 countries and territories worldwide.
An E-Safety Commission report indicates that one in three children have experienced some form of cyber bullying and harassment, while 47 percent of teenage children have received a sexual message online.
The commission also reports that 30 percent of teenagers have been contacted by a stranger online while 67 percent of adults have experienced some form of cyber harassment and misinformation.
Eric Msikiti is a Senior Reporter/News Producer at Times Group. Though relatively young, Eric boasts years of experience in Malawi’s media industry.
