The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has reminded all users of telecommunications services and devices of their responsibility to use these tools responsibly and lawfully. As digital connectivity continues to expand across Namibia, it is vital to uphold trust, safety, and security within our digital ecosystem. CRAN reaffirms its unwavering commitment to educating consumers, investigating unlawful conduct, and enforcing compliance to foster a secure and trustworthy communication environment for all Namibians.
Under Section 117 of the Communications Act (No. 8 of 2009), certain conduct related to telecommunications is criminalised. These offences are designed to protect individuals, especially vulnerable groups such as women, children, and persons with disabilities, from harassment, exploitation, and harm. They also safeguard the integrity of Namibia’s digital infrastructure and support the nation’s broader digital transformation agenda.
“Specifically, offences include but are not limited to sending obscene or indecent communications with the intent to harass or target minors or other individuals; making anonymous or repeated calls intended to threaten, intimidate, or abuse others; and engaging in unlawful interception, tracing, or recording of messages or communications,” stated Mr. Mufaro Nesongano, Executive: Communication & Consumer Relations, CRAN.
Additionally, possessing stolen devices or infrastructure, such as cellphones, copper wires, or fiber optics; unauthorised access to protected broadcasting and telecommunications services; and circulating indecent material, including images of accidents, nudity, or other offensive content are also offences related to telecommunication services and devices.
It is important to note that the circulation of private content without consent constitutes a criminal offence only when it breaches the provisions of Section 117(1)(c), which states:
“Any person who:
(c) by means of a telecommunications device knowingly –
(i) makes, creates, or solicits; or
(ii) initiates the transmission of, any comment, request, suggestion, proposal, image, or other communication, which is obscene, lewd, lascivious, filthy or indecent, with the intent to annoy, abuse, threaten, or harass another person.”
Violations of these provisions can lead to serious legal consequences, including imprisonment for up to five (5) years, a fine of up to N$20,000.00, or both, according to Section 117(2) of the Act.
These offences have far-reaching impacts. They threaten individual privacy, compromise personal safety, and undermine the security of victims, especially vulnerable groups. Furthermore, such conduct erodes public trust, hampers social cohesion, and poses risks to national security by potentially disrupting digital infrastructure. They also impede Namibia’s progress toward a secure, reliable, and inclusive digital future.
“CRAN emphasises that these offences are criminal in nature. Victims or concerned individuals are strongly encouraged to report such incidents to the Namibian Police Force (NamPol) to initiate criminal proceedings. Our law enforcement agencies are equipped to investigate and take appropriate action against offenders,” expressed Mr. Nesongano.
Moreover, CRAN remains committed at the highest level to maintaining order within the communications sector, protecting consumer rights, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards. We call on all users to exercise responsibility, respect others’ rights, and adhere to the law. By doing so, we can collectively foster a digital environment where trust, safety, and innovation thrive.
“For further information or to report unlawful conduct, please contact CRAN or your local law enforcement authorities. Together, let us build a safer and more trustworthy digital Namibia,” concluded Mr. Nesongano.