Tough law on the way to curb cybercrime

The Information, Communication and Technology ministry is drafting tough regulations to curb cybercrime.

Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i said securing the country’s cyberspace has been a challenge for the government as it adopts the online platform for service delivery.

“The Communications Authority is, however, working with other stakeholders in tackling the issue for effective business and trade,” said Dr Matiang'i.

He spoke on Tuesday during the official opening of the Connected East Africa Conference at the Leisure Lodge Resort in Kwale County.

The minister promised to involve Parliament in the drafting of the regulations. He asked legislators to consider the benefits of the regulations.

“We have to strike a balance between freedoms and security. I know it is a delicate balance but we cannot run away from it,” said Dr Matiang'i.

He said current laws have loopholes and, therefore, put online transactions at risk.

“We want a new cyber safety regime. We are involved in talks with the Director of Public Prosecutions on how to effectively come up with legislation to fight cybercrime,” said Dr Matiangi. “I assure you that the new legislation will impose stiffer penalties. We appeal to Parliament to agree with us.”

The minister’s remarks come against the backdrop of rising internet fraud. Information technology skills have become the gun for robbing banks, insurance companies and mobile money transfer agencies.

ONLINE TRADE

At least 77 Chinese nationals are facing charges of stealing close to Sh1.5 billion electronically. The suspects were arrested in Nairobi.

Police recovered items they termed “sophisticated” and capable of disrupting the country’s communications system, and infiltrating bank accounts, mobile money transfer networks and ATMs.

The two-day conference — which brought together information ministers from Uganda, South Sudan and Rwanda — seeks to harmonise the information and communication technology policy for the region as online trade rises.