The Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) has warned the public against illegally sharing e-newspapers, TV content, movies, and pirate subscription codes, cautioning that offenders risk a four-year jail term or a fine of up to Sh500,000.
In a statement issued on Friday, January 31, 2025, KECOBO Executive Director George Nayakweba said the agency has received numerous complaints regarding copyright infringement through online platforms, particularly Facebook, Telegram, and WhatsApp.
“Information available indicates that several Facebook and WhatsApp groups have been created solely for the purpose of illegally sharing e-newspapers, popular TV content, movies, and pirate subscription codes,” Nayakweba stated.
He further noted that some individuals were distributing pirated PDF books, while unauthorized websites were offering illegal live streams, affecting football broadcast signals.
“Be warned that under the Copyright Act, anyone found engaging in these illegal activities shall be liable to a fine not exceeding Sh500,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding four years, or both,” he added.
Nayakweba revealed that KECOBO is working closely with the Communications Authority of Kenya and social media platforms to investigate these violations and take action against those involved.
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