TCRA underscores significance of cyber safety

ARUSHA: THE Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has launched a comprehensive educational campaign to raise awareness about online crime in the northern regions of Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Manyara and Tanga.

Speaking during the campaign’s launch in Arusha on Wednesday, TCRA Northern Zone Manager, Eng Francis Mihayo, said creating a safe online environment is crucial for achieving Tanzania’s digital economic goals.

“Many Tanzanians are not adequately informed on how to use social media safely, which leaves them exposed to online fraud, hacking and misuse of these platforms,” he said.

He stressed that the campaign aligns with global efforts during Cybersecurity Education Month, celebrated every October, to equip Tanzanians with knowledge and skills to protect themselves in the digital space.

The six-month campaign will focus on various key areas, including promoting the use of Tanzania’s national domain, ‘.tz,’ to ensure that data shared under this domain remains within the country.

Eng Mihayo also pointed out that educating the public on how to identify online fraudsters—who often use regular mobile numbers instead of the emergency number 100—and taking precautions to prevent hacking are also high on the agenda.

“Another key objective is to encourage the use of technology in verifying online content and fostering responsible internet use,” he added.

The campaign targets a diverse audience, including children, youths, senior citizens, people with disabilities, businesses, NGOs, students, business owners and policymakers. TCRA aims to empower these groups to recognise online risks and take proactive measures to safeguard themselves from cybercrime.

“As technological advancements progress, cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to deceive people. This campaign is our way of responding to these emerging threats, advocating for a positive and responsible use of digital platforms,” Eng Mihayo explained.

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The campaign will be rolled out in two phases: Phase One runs from October 1 to December 31 this year, followed by Phase Two from January 1 to March 30 next year.

The campaign promises to deliver impactful educational programmes, workshops and public awareness initiatives to combat online crime across the northern regions.