5.9
Cyber Crimes
The national ICT Policy recognizes the urgent need to safeguard the ICT Sector from cybercrimes.
Cybercrime constitutes a real threat to the security of computer networking and the development of the
information society in Liberia and the sub region. Using other unauthorized means to extort money from
banks, hacking into other people emails are examples of cybercrimes. This policy, based on the
ECOWAS Directives associated with the cybercrime repression framework approved by ECOWAS ICT
Ministers, presents broad guidelines of strategy for the repression and prevention of cybercrime in
Liberia as it is in other EOWAS member countries.
The policy of the GoL is to incorporate the ECOWAS Directives related to cybercrime into the Criminal
Code of Liberia. These provisions include crimes involving fraud; the use of IT equipment to commit
offences; prohibition of child pornography; hate messages, threats and insults; crimes against humanity;
and new intangible media and national defense. (Note: Appendix A to this Policy provides detailed
descriptions of these crimes).
5.9.1 Method of Proof
Electronic documents shall be accepted as proof to establish an offence committed through electronic
transactions, provided the person from whom they emanate can be identified and that they are kept in
such conditions as to guarantee their integrity.
5.9.2 E-Legislation
GOL shall enact electronic legislation (e-Legislation) in line with the following core values to protect the
integrity of all electronic transactions in Liberia. Specifics described above constitute offences related to
ICT equipment, programs and services, among others.
5.10
Internet Service Providers
The policy is to impose no limitations on the entry, provision and operations of Internet services. To
promote and encourage Internet networks, these services are subject to minimal financial obligations and
regulatory oversight. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are required to contribute to the national Universal
Access Fund (UAF).
ISPs must provide public Internet access services and demonstrate continued public operations in order to
retain their licenses. The LTA shall, through appropriate Orders, Rules or Regulations, ensure that ISPs
provide Internet access services to customers at affordable prices within this policy period.
ISPs shall be encouraged to provide legal VoIP services under their licenses in order to expand access by
Liberians to low-cost methods of communicating with each other, as well as with relatives and other
people and businesses inside and outside Liberia.
5.10.1 Internet Telecenters
Public Internet access points, such as “Internet Cafés” and “Telecenters” shall apply to the LTA
for Class Licenses; however, such application shall not require payment of fees. Such license may
be revoked by the LTA for violation of required standards of services, or unauthorized provision
of bypass (VoIP) services, as the intent of this policy is to encourage the legal provision of VoIP
services in Liberia. Public Internet providers are subject to inspection to verify compliance.
34