South Africans could get up to 15 years in jail for forwarding certain WhatsApp messages
The new Cybercrimes Bill, which was first drafted in 2017, has been approved and is due to be signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Technology has provided us with many benefits, but unfortunately, there is still a lot of bad people who choose to use communications service providers like Whatsapp to spread violence and other terrible things.
READ: Find out why these limited edition Adidas sneakers are worth R15-million!
The bill has been introduced to exclusively help curb cybercrimes and it defines and criminalises multiple types of digital offenses across various platforms.
That means it obviously includes any form of electronic communication on apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, etc.
READ: Will you be watching the KFC Christmas movie this year?
The main focus of the bill deals with hacking, which includes unlawful access, interference with data or interception of data, as well as cyber fraud and forgery.
While protecting South Africans from hackers and email scammers is very important, the part of the bill that really caught people's attention was the fact that they will now also be addressing issues of malicious communications.
READ: "My word of the day is 'NO' because people are always asking me for things!"
This means that the distribution of messages that incite violence or damage to property, as well as personal threats.
But it's not as simple as just sending these messages, you will also be held accountable if you are found sharing or forwarding these types of messages.
Cyber-bullying has become a major issue over the years and has affected many people's lives, leading to depression and other mental health issues.
READ: "If my life were a Netflix series it would still be buffering..."
Finally, the victims of these crimes will be able to hold their bullies and tormentors accountable for the mental harm they have caused.
The perpetrators of these acts could face a hefty fine, imprisonment ranging from one year to 15 years, or even both.
READ: WATCH: Hearse bursts into flames while transporting coffin to viewing
Follow this link for more information and an in-depth look at all aspects, including what can be used as evidence, of this bill.
We are happy to see that South Africa is making the necessary moves to make sure that these people be held accountable for their actions.
For more unmissable Vic Naidoo moments, listen here:
Main image courtesy of iStock