Cybercrime as a threat to SADC’s peace and security: the case of Zimbabwe.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the effects of cyber crime as a threat to SADC’s peace and security with specific reference to Zimbabwe. Qualitative methodology and a case study research design of Zimbabwe was used as a case study. Primary data was gathered through key informant interviews, while documentary search was used to review scholarly literature on the subject. Key informants for the study were drawn from institutions and organisations that specifically deal in combating cyber crime. The key findings of this study are that SADC as a region does not have adequate and effective legislative instruments to combat cyber crime. Zimbabwe as a country is also lagging behind in terms of legislative provisions on cyber crime. The key findings reveal that cyber crime is a threat to peace and security in the sense that it can be used to bring down the critical infrastructure upon which the country depends, for example, the banking system. It can also be used to disrupt communication thus bringing down communication networks. Recommendations for this study include prevention and awareness; training and development; development of new technology and introduction of new laws and updating of current legislations.