STATE OF THE MEDIA IN ZAMBIA 4.3.5 Freedom of Expression Online - Cyber Space Despite increased reports of threats on the cyber space, the quarter recorded both threats and abuse of the cyber space especially social media. The pronounced introduction of the cyber security bills early this year has become a topical issue, taking over the engagement of government over the Access to Information (ATI) bill. On 6th July, Times of Zambia reported that 627 Zambians were victims of cybercrimes in which more than K600, 000 was stolen16. Times of Zambia reported: An upswing in cybercrimes and abuse of social media is grapping Zambia as 34 cases have been flagged from 627 victims with more than K600, 000 already stolen, Parliament heard yesterday. Transport and Communications Minister, Brian Mushimba said the majority of the stolen funds were transmitted through commercial banks and withdrawn in foreign countries within Africa. Mr. Mushimba said the cases in which unsuspecting people were duped into believing they were communicating with someone in position of authority or a politician on Facebook such as Cabinet Minister and were being offered assistance in getting employment, loans, contacts or scholarships. He said the Zambia Information and Communications Authority (ZICTA) and Zambian Police had in the recent past recorded an upswing in the number of cases. Another case in which the cyber space was being monitored involves the arrest of a teacher from Samfya for defamation of the President. Zambia Reports reported that17: Police in Lusaka have arrested a 29 year old male adult of Msolo Primary School in Samfya identified as Dickson Banda in connection with the defamatory 16 17 Times of Zambia – Cybercrimes invade social media – 6th July, 2018 Zambia Reports - Facebook Happy Samfya Man Nabbed for defamation of the president – 6th July, 2018 15