Question NW627 to the Minister of State Security
31 March 2017 - NW627
Stubbe, Mr DJ to ask the Minister of State Security
With reference to his statement made at the press briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster on 5 March 2017, (a) what are the reasons that his department is considering taking measures to regulate social media platforms, (b) when does his department plan on implementing such measures and (d) which avenues will be used to implement these measures?
Reply:
a) We’ve maintained that information-sharing via the electronic web or cyberspace has revolutionized our world and the way in which we interact with each other. It has brought exciting opportunities in developing our economies, improving our health care, education, agricultural production, the provision of services to name but a few. These opportunities are endless. However, on the same breath, there are real threats that have manifested themselves in the same space, which if left unchecked can destabilize our use of this space and result in untold harm to individuals, corporates and governments. These include amongst others, cybercrime activities, human trafficking, defamation, child pornography and the like. The concern is to isolate and deal with those individuals who have nefarious intentions and want to use cyberspace and its platforms to propagate such.
b) The intention of sharing such a view during that media briefing referred to in the Hon Members’ question was to allow South Africans to have an honest discussion and debate on this matter. On the occasion of the processing, by Parliament this year, of the Cyber Crime and Cyber Security Bill, the public will be able to make their input heard as we all have a responsibility to secure our cyberspace and all its related platforms.
(c) As indicated in (b) above, a process involving public participation will ensue as part of developing the appropriate regulatory framework.