World commemorates Safer Internet Day
Cyberbullying among children has become a serious problem and can have negative consequences on their well-being.
AS technology and social media became a part of everyone’s daily lives, it created the unfortunate risk of online abuse.
This is also known as cyberbullying and refers to when a person is bullied by another through the use of electronic devices such as cellphones and computers.
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Every year, on February 7, the world commemorates Safer Internet Day to promote safety and well-being online and to raise awareness of emerging online issues and concerns.
For this year, a series of activities have been lined up to create awareness about safer internet for users, especially children.
According to the reports, cyberbullying among children has become a serious problem and can have negative consequences on a child’s mental and emotional well-being.
Until recently, South Africa did not have a legislative framework in place that dealt specifically with cyberbullying. To obtain some form of legal recourse, victims can rely on other criminal or civil law remedies such as obtaining a protection order.
In this country, in 2021, the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020 (‘Act’) which criminalises cybercrimes, was finalised but has not yet come into effect.
This Act is regarded as a major milestone that brings South Africa’s cybersecurity laws in line with international standards.
It provides that a person who lays charges for cybercrimes at the police can also apply at a Magistrate’s Court for a protection order.
With regard to children, these crimes will also form part of the Child Justice Act 75 of 2008 which regulates how they will be dealt with when they are accused of committing crimes and what consequences they will face.
The regional director for the Africa International Telecommunication Union, Anne Rachel, speaking during the virtual launch of Africa Safer Internet Day recently, said, “We, as stakeholders, have an important role to play. We must help our young ones become aware and build their capacity to handle the challenges inherent in the digital world.”
John Omo, the secretary general of the African Telecommunication Union, said despite many benefits that come with internet usage, children are also exposed to many risks.
However, Omo revealed that according to a recent study, nearly half of all children aged 12 to 15 have experienced some form of cyberbullying, while one in five has been the target of severe bullying.
“In addition, the number of reported cases of online child exploitation has risen dramatically in recent years, with authorities reporting a rise of more than 600% in just five years,” he added.
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