The American Embassy warned citizens about Zambia's new cyber law, which requires monitoring all digital communications. Officials can monitor phone calls, emails, text messages, and streaming content to check for security threats. The law defines "critical information" broadly enough to include almost any activity, raising mass surveillance worries.
Zambian authorities say they need these powers to fight online fraud, child pornography, and false information. They claim the law respects privacy because monitors must first obtain court warrants. Government officials insist that authorized institutions follow proper legal steps when requesting data access.
Critics fear authorities might use these powers against political opponents ahead of next year's elections. Many Zambians worry about a new cybersecurity department being created inside the president's office. The law allows police with warrants to enter buildings, take computers, and extradite people accused of breaking these rules. Punishments include fines or prison sentences between 5 and 15 years.
People continue debating how the law might affect privacy rights and free speech. The government wants stronger cyber protection, but human rights groups see potential for misuse. Many people plan to watch closely how authorities implement these new powers.
Zambian authorities say they need these powers to fight online fraud, child pornography, and false information. They claim the law respects privacy because monitors must first obtain court warrants. Government officials insist that authorized institutions follow proper legal steps when requesting data access.
Critics fear authorities might use these powers against political opponents ahead of next year's elections. Many Zambians worry about a new cybersecurity department being created inside the president's office. The law allows police with warrants to enter buildings, take computers, and extradite people accused of breaking these rules. Punishments include fines or prison sentences between 5 and 15 years.
People continue debating how the law might affect privacy rights and free speech. The government wants stronger cyber protection, but human rights groups see potential for misuse. Many people plan to watch closely how authorities implement these new powers.
