The US Embassy in Zambia has alerted its citizens about the country’s recently passed Cyber Security Act. This law mandates the monitoring and interception of all electronic communications to identify possible threats to national security.
This includes tracking phone calls, emails, text messages, and online streaming.
The Embassy has pointed out that the law’s vague definition of “critical information” could cover nearly any activity, leading to worries about widespread surveillance.
The Zambian government argues that this law is essential for fighting online fraud, child exploitation, and misinformation, insisting that it does not aim to invade personal privacy.
They claim that any interception or data request must be approved by a court-issued warrant and that evaluations are conducted by authorized agencies following proper legal procedures.
However, critics are concerned that the law could be misused to silence opposition, especially with elections approaching next year. Many Zambians are also uneasy about a new cyber-security unit being set up in the president’s office.
The law gives law enforcement the authority to enter properties, confiscate computers, and extradite individuals accused of crimes, with penalties ranging from fines to prison sentences of 5 to 15 years.
The introduction of the Cyber Security Act has ignited discussions about its possible effects on privacy and freedom of speech.
While the government aims to enhance cybersecurity, worries about potential misuse and human rights violations continue. The implementation and consequences of this law will likely be watched closely in the upcoming months.
