• The Authority is concerned about incidents of cyber bullying, fake news, online rumors and general internet abuse.
• Broadcasting stations must be careful in the manner they use online platforms as sources of information.
• The Authority wishes to support Government’s efforts aimed at stopping cyber bullying and general internet abuse.

The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has cautioned broadcasting stations to be careful in the manner they use online platforms as sources of information.
In a statement, Authority Board Chairperson Mabel Mung’omba said that IBA is concerned about increasing incidents of cyber bullying, fake news, online rumors and general internet abuse.
Ms. Mung’omba further urged all broadcasting Stations that utilize the internet, to do so in a professional manner
Ms. Mung’omba noted that traditional media unlike social media platforms, have instituted gate-keeping processes designed to preserve the integrity of the content that goes to the public.
“We wish to encourage all broadcasting stations that utilize the internet, to do so in a professional manner and adhere to the same guidelines that they follow when they write news for the traditional media.”
“The Authority has noted with regret that most social media users pay no regard to the negative impact of the messages they post which may have far reaching consequences on the victims,” Ms. Mung’omba stated.
Meanwhile, Ms. Mung’omba disclosed that the broadcasting Authority fully supports Government’s efforts aimed at stopping cyber bullying, fake news, online rumors and general internet abuse.
“IBA wishes to support the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill, 2021 which seeks to among other things, provide for cyber security in the Republic, protection of persons against cybercrime, child online protection, and facilitate identification, declaration and protection of critical information infrastructure.”
“To this effect, the IBA supports and acknowledges the sensitization campaign and walk from Lusaka to Livingstone by Captain Thokozile Muwamba and others, which was aimed at sensitizing and creating public awareness against cyber bullying, fake news, online rum ours and general internet abuse,” she said.