The government has stepped in to defend the controversial Computer Misuse and Cybercrime (Amendment) Act, 2024, saying that much of the information circulating online is misleading or entirely false.
In a statement on Tuesday, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo urged Kenyans to read the actual provisions of the amended law instead of depending on social media opinions or selective interpretations.
He explained that most online discussions have distorted the true purpose and content of the law.
“A lot of what is being shared online about the amended Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act is misleading or outright false. We encourage citizens to read the adopted Bill themselves to understand what has actually changed,” PS Omollo said.
Dr Omollo described the new amendments as progressive, noting that they aim to strengthen Kenya’s cybersecurity framework by expanding the powers of the National Computer and Cybercrime Coordination Committee (NC4).
Under the new law, the NC4 can now give legal directives to take action against websites and online platforms involved in activities such as child pornography, human trafficking, and terrorism.
The PS explained that the updated Act includes tougher measures to prevent harmful online behaviour, such as deliberate actions that drive victims to suicide.
According to the PS, this provision demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting Kenyans from emerging forms of digital harm and abuse.
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Dr. Omollo added that the amendments come at a pivotal time as Kenya pushes forward with its Digital Superhighway initiative, a key pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). He pointed out that a secure and reliable digital environment is essential for the growth of innovation, improvement of e-commerce, extension of online delivery of services, and safeguarding of citizens’ data and livelihood.
Wajir East MP Aden Mohamed is behind the new law that aims to crack down on dangerous online activities, from child exploitation to terrorism and religious extremism.
One of the biggest changes? The National Computer and Cyberspace Coordination Committee (NC4) will now have the authority to block websites and apps that spread illegal content or extremist messages.
The Bill also takes a harder line on cyber harassment. Now, if your online communication leads to violence, property damage, or harm to someone else, you could be facing serious consequences of up to Ksh. 20 million in fines, 10 years behind bars, or both.
Phishing scams are getting more attention too. The law now covers identity theft through emails and phone calls. If you’re caught running a fake website or tricking people into handing over personal information, you’re looking at a Ksh.300,000 fine or three years in prison.
There’s also a new provision targeting SIM-swapping fraud. Taking control of someone’s SIM card without permission, especially to commit another crime, can now land you a Ksh.200,000 fine, two years in jail, or both.
