The President of South Africa has signed the Cybercrimes Act into law. This means that South Africa now has a comprehensive law to regulate cybercrime. The wait is finally over, and it is now time for you to take action. Some of the big questions that arise are: what does this law mean for me? When will the law commence? Will there be a grace period like POPIA? What actions should I take? Just like any law, you want to take practical and effective action that will help you understand how the law affects you and your organisation.

The Cybercrimes Act comes at a crucial time with many of us working remotely. This brings additional security concerns. And we’re seeing an increase in the number of high profile cyberattacks in the public and private sectors. These numbers have increased at an alarming rate during the COVID-19 pandemic. This law is needed to protect South Africans and their organisations from harm. Michalsons focuses on Cybercrimes Law so you’re in safe hands.

Who does the law impact?

The law impacts everyone in South Africa. Depending on your roles (whether you are an electronic communications service provider or a financial institution) the Cybercrimes Act might place some obligations on you and your organisation. The Cybercrimes Act will affect the way we interact with data or use our electronic devices like a computer. The Cybercrimes Act has a far-reaching impact and it is important you understand how to deal with this impact.

Actions for you to take now

  • Understand how the Act impacts your organisation by attending our half day online workshop on the Cybercrimes Act.
  • Ask us to help you determine the impact of cybercrimes on your organisation and the next steps by doing the online Cybercrimes impact assessment.
  • Get an overview by reading our plain language summary on the Cybercrimes Act and downloading it.
  • Know what the law says by accessing the web version of it on cybercrimesact.co.za
  • Determine the impact on your organisation by reading what the practical impact is on different organisations and people.
  • Receive future updates or alerts about the Cybercrimes Act by subscribing to the Michalsons newsletter.
  • Brief your board on the Cybercrimes Act and the legal implications for your organisation by asking us to present a executive briefing to them.
  • Find out what other actions you can take related to cybercrime by visiting our main cybercrime law page.