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‘Circulate obscene content, risk two years prison sentence,’ ZICTA warns Zambians against abuse of social media

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The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has expressed serious concern over the increasing circulation of obscene videos and other explicit content on social media platforms.

ZICTA Manager for Corporate Communications, Hanford Chaaba, described the trend as a misuse of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), warning that it poses a direct threat to Zambia’s national values and moral principles.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday, Chaaba reminded the public that the use of a computer or computer system to publish or transmit obscene, vulgar, or lewd electronic content is a criminal offence.

He added that this includes lascivious or indecent content intended to humiliate, harass, or cause substantial emotional distress to others.

Chaaba further stated that repeatedly sending such content with the intent to harm another person’s emotional wellbeing, self-esteem, or reputation is punishable under the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025.

Read More: ZICTA orders Airtel to pay K4 million in compensation to customers for internet disruption

“A person found guilty of this offence is liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding 200,000 penalty units or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both,” he said.

He urged citizens to act responsibly online and refrain from sharing or publishing obscene, vulgar, or indecent material.

“Beyond complying with the law, this is essential to uphold the moral integrity of our communities and protect vulnerable groups, particularly children and youths, from harmful online content,” Chaaba said.

He added that ZICTA remained committed to working with other government institutions, law enforcement, and stakeholders to promote responsible use of ICTs, enforce the law, and protect citizens from online abuse.

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