An internet security expert, Isaac Obour has called for the strict enforcement of the law against insults and threats on social media, highlighting the need to address the growing problem of online harassment and abuse.
This call comes in response to the increasing prevalence of harmful content and the potential for such content to incite violence and/or cause emotional distress.
The arrest of two people by the police in connection with a video shared on social media, in which an individual threatened to harm President John Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama is an example of the reckless disregard for the law, raising concerns about the sanitisation of social media.
Speaking on Midday News on Onua TV, NSEM TITRE, Isaac Obour urged Law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of online harassment and threats, particularly those that show credible threats of violence.
“Even though some arrest have been made, there should be prosecution in accordance with the laws of Ghana to serve as deterrent to others” he said.
He further stated that efforts should be made to educate the public about the legal and social consequences of online harassment and to promote respectful online interactions by the Cyber Security Authority and other relevant institutions.
“There should be a system review with human face to control content on social media” Isaac Obour emphasised.
Overall, the internet security expert, Isaac Obour, who currently works in the USA emphasized the need for a multi-pronged approach to addressing the problem of online insults and threats, which must involve law enforcement, social media platforms, and the public at large.
“A comprehensive approach involving multiple strategies by the Ministry of Communications and other stake holders to rapidly salvage the situation is essential before it gets out of hand”, he said.
