Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) Acting Director General, Mayamiko Nkoloma, says there is urgent need to protect personal data online as Malawi continues experiencing rising cases of cybercrime and online abuse.
Nkoloma has made the remarks during the commemoration of Data Privacy Week, an annual event aimed at raising public awareness on the importance of data privacy and the protection of personal information in an increasingly digital world.
Nkoloma says rapid growth of digital platforms has exposed many internet users to cyberbullying, identity theft, online fraud, and other cyber-related crimes hence MACRA remains committed to protecting internet users.
“There are more that being connected and they need to understand exactly what happens on the internet. Oversharing of information on the internet is a problem because you don’t know what the other entity is going to use that information for, so there is need for Malawians to fully understand the importance of this Data Privacy and privacy of information”, he said.
Nkoloma said they have put in place strategies to make sure that people are protected, hence the awareness will assist them in achieving their goal..
He further urged Malawians particularly the media, civil society organizations, and learning institutions to take a leading role in educating the public on data protection and responsible use of digital platforms.
“Now that you the media, schools, learners and all other stake holders are here, we are very sure that the messages will reach people who have been and still facing challenges like cyber bullying and data impersonation. You know the big challenge is awareness, so am sure this information will create the awareness that we need”. He added.
One of the participants Joshua Mmodzi, a student from Lilongwe Academy, said the meeting was crucial especially for young people who increasingly rely on the internet for education, communication, and social interaction.
Mmodzi noted that many youths lack adequate knowledge of data privacy hence making them vulnerable to cybercrime.
“This information will help us go and meet people even in the remote areas who have just got phones and tell them that they should not just share their information anyhow, because some people may take the information and commit crimes in your name while you are not aware”, he explained.
The Data Privacy Week commemoration brought together regulators, students, media practitioners, and other stakeholders to discuss challenges and best practices in data protection, as Malawi continues to strengthen its digital governance framework.
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