Cyberbullies in Zimbabwe risk imprisonment of five to ten years under the Cyber and Data Protection Act, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has warned.
Speaking at a Consumer Engagement Forum in Nyamaropa on Friday, POTRAZ officials emphasized the legal consequences of cyberbullying and urged victims to report incidents to the police or directly to the regulator.
The forum, part of POTRAZ’s outreach initiatives, aims to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities as users of postal and telecommunication services. It also seeks to promote safe and responsible online behavior amid growing concerns over digital harassment.
“Cyberbullying is a serious offense under the Cyber and Data Protection Act, and offenders will face the full force of the law,” a POTRAZ representative stated. The authority highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, including children, from online abuse and ensuring that Zimbabwe’s digital space remains safe and secure for all users.
POTRAZ further encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any cyberbullying incidents to law enforcement or their offices. “Victims or their guardians should not hesitate to come forward, as addressing such cases is critical to fostering a safe digital environment,” the regulator noted.
The event also included discussions on digital literacy, privacy protection, and the ethical use of online platforms. With internet penetration growing in Zimbabwe, POTRAZ stressed the need for continued awareness campaigns to empower users and curb cybercrimes.
The Consumer Engagement Forum was hosted by POTRAZ in partnership with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe, and the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe
Comments