The digital age has brought with it a host of new challenges.
One of the most alarming is the rise of sextortion. Sextortion, a form of blackmail where perpetrators threaten to release intimate images or videos unless the victim complies with their demands, has become a growing problem worldwide.
In Zimbabwe, a recent case has highlighted the devastating impact this crime can have on individuals and the urgent need for stronger legal protections.
Rumbidzai (not her real name to protect her identity) a 29-year old woman living in Harare, fell victim to a sextortion scheme that upended her life.
It began innocuously enough. She connected with a man online and the two began chatting. Over time, the conversation grew more intimate, and Rumbidzai eventually shared some private photos and videos with him. “I thought I could trust him," Rumbidzai recounts, her voice trembling.
“We had been talking for months, and he seemed so nice. I never imagined he would do something like this.”
But that is exactly what happened.
One day, Rumbidzai received a message from her online paramour, demanding a large sum of money. If she did not pay, he threatened to release the intimate pictures he had obtained from her.
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“I was absolutely horrified,” Rumbidzai says. The thought of those photos and videos being shared publicly was devastating. I knew I had to do something, but I was terrified”.
Rumbidzai's nightmare only worsened from there. Fearing the consequences of refusing the demands, she began sending the money requested. But the perpetrator continued to demand more, using the threat of releasing the pictures as leverage.
“It felt like there was no end to it,” Rumbidzai laments. “I was constantly stressed, constantly afraid. I did not know what to do.”
Tragically, Rumbidzai's story is not unique.
Sextortion has become an all-too-common form of cybercrime, with perpetrators often targeting young, vulnerable individuals. The psychological toll can be immense, with victims experiencing feelings of shame, anxiety, and depression.
In Zimbabwe, the laws surrounding sextortion and the non-consensual distribution of intimate content are still evolving.
Currently, the main piece of legislation that addresses these issues is the Cyber and Data Protection Act, which was enacted in 2021.
Under this law, the non-consensual distribution of intimate images or videos is considered a criminal offense, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
The law also prohibits the use of electronic means to coerce, threaten or extort individuals, which would cover sextortion cases.
However, legal experts argue that the law still has some significant gaps. For one, the definition of “intimate content” is not clearly defined, leaving room for interpretation. Additionally, the law does not specifically address the issue of sextortion, instead relying on more general provisions related to extortion and the distribution of private content.
“The Cyber and Data Protection Act is a step in the right direction, but it is clear that more needs to be done to address the growing problem of sextortion in Zimbabwe,” says Chipo Ndlovu, a researcher at the University of Zimbabwe.
Ndlovu suggests that the government should consider introducing specific legislation to address sextortion, outlining clear definitions, penalties, and victim support measures.
This, she argues, would provide stronger legal protections and send a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated.
While legal reform is crucial, experts also emphasise the need for a more holistic approach to tackling sextortion.
This includes:
Awareness , education campaigns
Raising public awareness about sextortion, its risks, and the available resources for victims is essential. This can help empower individuals to make informed decisions about their online activities and seek help if they become victims.
Victim support services
Providing comprehensive support services for victims of sextortion, including counselling, legal assistance, and financial aid, can help them navigate the trauma and regain a sense of control.
Law enforcement training
Ensuring that law enforcement officials are equipped to properly investigate and prosecute sextortion cases is crucial. This may involve specialised training on cybercrime and the handling of sensitive digital evidence.
Collaboration with tech companies
Working closely with social media platforms, dating apps, and other digital services to implement robust reporting mechanisms and content moderation policies can help prevent and respond to sextortion incidents more effectively.
Conclusion
Rumbidzai's story is a harrowing reminder of the devastating impact sextortion can have on individuals. While the Zimbabwean legal landscape is slowly evolving to address this issue, much more needs to be done to protect victims and deter perpetrators.
By implementing a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach that combines legal reform, public awareness, victim support, and cross-sector collaboration, Zimbabwe can take meaningful steps towards eradicating the scourge of sextortion. Only then can individuals like Rumbidzai find the justice and healing they deserve.
- Mutisi is the CEO of Hansole Investments (Pvt) Ltd. He is the current chairperson of Zimbabwe Information & Communication Technology, a division of Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers. — +263772 278 161 or chair@zict.org.zw
