WhatsApp Users in THIS Country Now Need a License to Be Group Admins

In a move aimed at combating misinformation, Zimbabwe has introduced a new regulation that requires all WhatsApp group administrators to register with the Post and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe and obtain a license. The announcement was made by Tatendra Mavetera, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information and Technology, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services.

Details About the New Regulation

The cost of the license is set at $50. This regulation is part of an effort to align with Zimbabwe’s Data Protection Act, which safeguards personal information that can identify individuals. Group administrators, who have access to the phone numbers of their members, are considered responsible under this act.

Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa explained that licensing aims to track and identify the sources of misinformation more effectively. The government sees this move as essential to curbing false or misleading information, which can spread rapidly online.

Licensing Process and Implications

According to reports, group administrators will need to provide personal information as part of the licensing process. The requirement aligns with WhatsApp’s recent initiatives to combat misinformation, such as the “Search on Web” tool that verifies images.

The announcement, effective immediately, has sparked debate. While some view it as a necessary step to maintain online integrity, others are concerned about its impact on digital communities and the freedom of communication.