Namibia moves to strengthen cybercrime laws

Government is moving forward with a fresh plan to protect citizens from online crimes.

This is according to the information and communication technology ministry's executive director, Linda Nakale, during Monday's workshop with stakeholders as they were discussing the upcoming Cybercrime Bill.

As more people in Namibia go online to shop, bank and connect with others, criminals are also moving online, Nakale warned.

“Lately, there is an increase in scams, fake investment schemes, phishing attempts and unauthorised banking transactions. What is concerning is that criminals target senior citizens, the youth and businesses,” she said.

“These crimes affect individuals, families, businesses and institutions and have devastating psychological and economical effects,” she added.

She added that, because these crimes can originate from anywhere in the world, Namibia needs strong laws to track and punish these offenders.

"It is important to highlight that just like physical criminals, cybercriminals work in syndicates and profile their targets. They study their habits and routines and draft strategies on how to attack them," Nakale noted.

“Therefore, be mindful about what you post and what information you share with others. Do not give away your personal information, such as PINs, to strangers. Such information can be used against you.”

Work together

Nakale said tackling online crime is a collective responsibility that requires stronger access controls, investments in infrastructure, awareness campaigns, capacity building, and robust legislative frameworks.

She explained that the Cybercrime Bill has three main goals to protect Namibia’s digital economy. First, it aims to safeguard computer systems by creating rules to prevent hacking.

The bill also seeks to make it easier for police and courts to investigate, prosecute and punish those who commit online crimes.

The bill also aims to protect critical infrastructure, including the country’s key information systems used for banking and government services.

Nakale emphasised that technology alone cannot stop cybercrime, adding that people also need to be aware of the risks.

She said the government is currently working with partners like SALT Essential IT and Lifeline Childline to offer free training to the public.

The sessions aim to teach people how to spot scams and how to keep their personal information, like bank PINs, private.

Additionally, Namibia is working with international groups like the African Union and SADC to make sure its laws match global standards.

“This ensures that Namibia can cooperate with other countries to catch criminals who operate across borders,” Nakale said.

The workshop included leaders and experts from the Kunene, Ohangwena, Omusati, and Oshikoto regions.

Their feedback will be used to improve the bill.

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