Spreading ‘fake news’ will soon land people in jail, attract hefty fines or both should members of parliament pass the Computer and Cyber Crimes Bill, 2017.
The bill will be tabled by leaders of majority in the National Assembly, Aden Duale after the house resumes after a one week recess.
“Once this bill is enacted by the president, how you use your smart phone, computer, tablet is of great importance because it can land you in jail or a court of law,” he said.
Drafting, publishing and spreading false information, will attract a two year jail term or a Sh5 million fine for those found guilty of the spreading ‘fake news.’
WhatsApp groups are also targeted as they are frequently used to spread false information. The group admin will be held accountable as well as members who forward the information.
“The administrator will be liable, the persons who forwards such information to another group or person will be accountable, everyone in that chain are liable to an offense,” the Garissa township legislator noted.
Cyber bullies and stalkers could find themselves behind bars for at least 10 years or fined Sh20 million and in some instances both penalties could apply.
“Cyber bullying is connected to extortion and intimidation, when you bully someone without evidence, you are causing that person distress,” he said.
The proposed law will also target persons who alter information using Photoshop.
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President Uhuru Kenyatta chairs the National Security Council that played a critical role in drafting the aforementioned bill.
Some of the online crimes listed in the bill are: computer fraud, interference and interception to security systems as well as use of illegal devices and access codes, cyber espionage and unauthorized access.
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