Latest news with #ProtectionofPersonalInformationAct
Business Insider
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Meta faces legal battle in South Africa over illicit content involving minors
The decision comes as South Africa grapples with rising cybercrime, including WhatsApp scams and the spread of illegal content. This development follows a high-profile legal case initiated by social media law expert Emma Sadleir, who took action against the tech giant after discovering over 30 Instagram accounts and at least six WhatsApp channels distributing illicit content and personal information of South African schoolchildren. Court documents revealed that new accounts were being created "every few minutes" to distribute the material, indicating an organized and persistent campaign that has sparked nationwide concern and urgent legal action. Sadleir, representing The Digital Law Company, emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable children. She said, " This is about protecting vulnerable children. Full compliance with the court order is critical to identifying the perpetrators.' In support of the lawsuit, the Pretoria High Court ordered Meta to discontinue the identified accounts and provide subscriber information, including names, email addresses, phone numbers, and IP addresses used at account creation and last login. Despite the urgency, Meta's initial refusal to comply prompted the legal team to file a contempt of court application. The tech giant however argued that the filing had misidentified legal entities, thereby delaying the process. Critics claimed that Meta was avoiding accountability despite having the technical means to respond. Amid growing public and legal pressure, Meta agreed to a settlement on July 18, specifically due to the threat of imprisonment for Meta's Southern Africa representative, Thabiso Makenete. The company has since deactivated over 60 accounts and promised to provide the requested data within three business days under strict confidentiality. Emma Sadleir, founder of The Digital Law Company, described the agreement as unprecedented, she said, " This may be the first time in South Africa that a global tech company has formally agreed in writing to provide such data in compliance with a local court order." Regulatory compliance mars Meta, SA relations Notably, this is not the first time both entities have conflicted. South Africa's Information Regulator has previously had disputes with Meta over compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). In 2024, WhatsApp was criticized for vague privacy terms and unauthorized data-sharing with Meta and third parties. This case adds another layer on recent security concerns, testing Meta's willingness to balance privacy obligations with public safety demands. While child protection advocates have welcomed the ruling as a major step toward digital accountability, digital rights organizations have warned about the broader implications. "We must ensure that data disclosures do not set a precedent for unchecked surveillance," a spokesperson for the South African Digital Rights Forum noted.
The Citizen
16-07-2025
- The Citizen
CPS Security launches License Plate Recognition Camera in Southcrest to combat crime
CPS Security has launched a license plate recognition (LPR) camera in Southcrest to strengthen crime prevention and increase vehicle tracking capabilities across Alberton. The first LPR camera stands at a crucial point on Vootrekker Road, a route that enters the area from the Johannesburg CBD and which criminals often use. This initiative, fully funded by CPS Security, links directly with the SAPS and alerts response units in real-time. 'We have had house robberies in the Southcrest area and, through many years of experience, we noticed that criminals regularly use Voortrekker Road to enter and exit,' said Tyron van der Merwe of CPS Security. 'We've always wanted to put cameras here, and this is just the start.' How the system works The LPR cameras scan every vehicle entering or leaving Southcrest and compare its number plates to a national database that the SAPS uses. Vehicles flagged as involved in criminal activity trigger an instant alert to CPS tactical units. 'The alerts happen in milliseconds. Once a vehicle is detected, our tactical teams immediately respond and co-ordinate with law enforcement such as the SAPS, the EMPD and the JMPD,' explained van der Merwe. Each alert contains detailed case information, including crime type, case number, dates and the name of the investigating officer, allowing teams to act fast and legally during stop-and-searches. Constant monitoring and broader integration The LPR system is monitored 24 hours a day through two advanced control room platforms. CPS works with the Vumacam and Mavic surveillance networks, which support crime-fighting efforts across Gauteng. 'We use two control rooms and partner networks to ensure we never miss an alert. This gives us an edge in staying one step ahead of criminals.' CPS is part of the broader Vumacam project that operates in Glenvista, Mulbarton, Moffatview, Alberton, and Germiston. The Southcrest camera adds to this broader surveillance network. Protecting privacy and upholding the law CPS assured the public that the system complies with the Protection of Personal Information Act (Popia). All footage and vehicle data remain confidential and are shared only with vetted partners under strict non-disclosure agreements. 'We do not share footage with the public. The information is used strictly for crime combating and is handled within legal boundaries,' said van der Merwe. Positive community feedback Local safety organisations and residents have received the Southcrest camera installation well. Deidre de Carvalho, a representative of the Alberton CPF and community member, praised the move. 'What the CPS came up with is a brilliant idea. Now, when criminals enter Alberton, CPS and the police can be alert, which will reduce crime in the area,' she said. Expansion plans and community involvement Southcrest has one installed LPR camera, but CPS has identified other high-risk entry and exit points where they will place more cameras. The system is active in Brackendowns and Randhart, with similar installations in progress. CPS encourages residents and business owners to join the initiative and help sponsor camera poles in their areas. 'We are reaching out to business owners and residents to adopt poles or support installation costs. It is affordable and has been proven effective in multiple suburbs,' van der Merwe said. CPS also offers complete area surveys to identify security needs and determine the best placement for LPR technology. Mobile units and long-term vision Where permanent infrastructure is not yet available, CPS use a mobile LPR trailer to deploy to hotspots. This trailer has the same recognition technology and has aided many criminal apprehensions. 'Whether a fixed pole or mobile trailer, the results are consistent. These systems are one of the best tools we have in the fight against crime,' said van der Merwe. The long-term goal is to secure every major entry and exit point in Alberton, Johannesburg south and Germiston. 'We took the initiative upon ourselves to invest in this project because we care about the safety of our suburbs. This is only the beginning, and we will continue to innovate.' Support from law enforcement CPS Security appreciated the continued support of law enforcement partners, like the SAPS, the EMPD, the JMPD and Gauteng Traffic. 'They have stood by us when it mattered most. Their presence during stops and investigations ensures we follow the law and keep communities safe,' said Van der Merwe. Colonel Letloenyane, the station commander at the Alberton SAPS, also welcomed the initiative and applauded CPS Security's proactive steps. 'We appreciate all the efforts our stakeholders are putting into place to ensure Alberton is a safe place to live. It will come in handy because it is a known fact that most criminals use that route to come to Alberton and terrorise our community.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
16-07-2025
- IOL News
Rugby residents demand action against derelict property linked to crime
Rugby residents say 20 Donegal Street, which was once a home, is now a hotspot for crime. Image: SUPPLIED Frustrated residents of Rugby are calling for immediate intervention at a derelict property on the corner of Donegal and Santos streets, which they say has become a breeding ground for criminal activity, gang violence, and community fear. Luigi Maree, chairperson of the Rugby West Neighbourhood Watch, said the community has endured years of lawlessness linked to the abandoned house, which has reportedly been set alight three times and linked to at least five separate gang-related shooting incidents. 'For far too long, this property has been a haven for illegal squatting, drug dealing, and gang-related violence,' he said. 'The continued vandalism and violence have left the neighbourhood in a state of fear and insecurity.' Despite repeated complaints to the City, Law Enforcement , SAPS, and Ward 55 councillor Fabian Ah-Sing, residents claim little has been done to address the crisis. 'Our pleas have gone unanswered. We are now demanding meaningful action,' he said. Residents are calling for immediate removal of illegal occupants, a full investigation into the repeated fires and shootings, and increased police and law enforcement presence in the area to restore a sense of safety. Rugby residents said the derelict building at 20 Donegal Street is used as a dumping ground. Image: SUPPLIED They also want urgent measures to secure or demolish the structure, which they say poses an ongoing danger, and they are demanding accountability from city departments and elected officials who have failed to act. He said that the community is now in the process of forming a ratepayers' association to further escalate their concerns and reclaim their streets. The City has confirmed the property is listed with its Problem Building Unit (PBU). According to Law Enforcement spokesperson Wayne Dyason, the building is part of a deceased estate and has been referred to the City's finance department for debt recovery and possible sale in execution. 'The PBU conducts bi-weekly follow-ups, but as this is private property, the owner would typically be responsible for maintenance. There are currently no new updates,' he said. The City's mayoral committee member for Finance, Siseko Mbandezi, said the City is pursuing debt recovery in line with its Credit Control and Debt Collection policy, but due to the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), it cannot disclose account details. Meanwhile, residents say criminal activity has continued unchecked. However, Milnerton CPF spokesperson Mariel Davila confirmed that the matter is raised at nearly every CPF meeting. 'SAPS continues patrolling the area, but with limited vehicle resources, it's challenging to maintain consistent oversight,' she said. 'We are calling on municipal authorities to act urgently,' said Maree. 'If the City won't secure these properties, we fear more violence and lawlessness will follow.' Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel. Cape Argus
Eyewitness News
10-07-2025
- Business
- Eyewitness News
Spam calls NOT stopping? Here's what POPIA says and where you can report them...
Unwanted spam calls have consumers pulling their hair out in frustration. No matter who you are, how important you are or how much you earn, you are not exempt from these calls. RELATED: Rise in spam calls leads to increased use of caller identification apps The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) does not prohibit direct marketing but aims to strike a balance between the right to market and the right to privacy. The Act states that your telephone number can only be obtained from a legitimate source – in other words, you have personally given your contact details.
IOL News
01-07-2025
- Automotive
- IOL News
WATCH: IOL goes on exclusive aerial mission in SA's vehicle crime war
IOL went with Netstar to recover a hijacked vehicle, which was located successfully within an hour Image: Nicola Mawson It starts out as an exceptionally cold day – five degrees – when I arrive at Netstar's Global Fleet Bureau (GFB) in Midrand with the plan of going up in a helicopter on a mission to recover a stolen or hijacked car. The GFB contact center at Netstar's head office is the first point of call for people who have just been hijacked or come out of the shops and found their car stolen. Between verifying identities to ensure the call is legit and getting a response team on the ground or in the air, Contact Center Manager Rajan Algoppen, told IOL will take a maximum of 15 minutes in winter or at night, and that's because the bird needs to warm up. The recovery company reacts as quickly as possible while remaining securely within the boundaries of the law, such as complying with the Protection of Personal Information Act, and aspects such as air traffic control. Netstar's Global Fleet Bureau where calls are received Image: Nicola Mawson Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Calls coming into the contact center can vary from someone who has just been hijacked through to a stolen vehicle as well as people who are concerned about loved ones for a variety of reasons. Jeandre Koen, MD of Netstar SA, explained that it is increasingly seeing incidents of people being kidnapped. This, Koen said, is a bid by criminals to take the 'heat' away from them by having collateral. Ransoms, too, are on the increase, he said. Algoppen said that call center staff are specifically trained to help people deal with these sorts of difficult situations and they are also offered counselling so they can debrief. South Africans are being held for days, which also enables thieves to make best use of their smartphone banking app, pulling out the maximum cash, said Koen. He added that hijackers then dump people, usually naked and without a cellphone, somewhere very out of the way where the closest human can be as far away as a two-hour walk. 'They make it difficult to find your people.' The South African Police Service's (SAPS') crime stats for the period between October and December last year showed that there were 4 807 carjackings in those three months – 1 602 a month, although this a 20% decrease year-on-year. During the last quarter of 2024, there were 413 truck jackings. At the National Airways Corporation heliport close to Netstar's head office, a call comes in and the chase is on. Pilot Jaco spins up the blades on the Robertson R44 Raven 2, while airtracker Bongani starts tracking the car – a Kio Picanto. The car has been taken in Centurion and the helicopter is steered along its most likely escape route. Live agents back in the GFB, based on years of knowledge, help direct recovery efforts along likely escape routes. In the helicopter, Jaco pilots it north towards Centurion and the chase is on. While he's flying and liaising with various air traffic controllers such as at Midrand's Grand Central Airport, Bongani is checking the signal from the car and keeping an almost literal eagle eye out the windscreen and windows. The Kia is found a short while later, and the adrenaline rush is over barring the paperwork. Jaco explained that once the vehicle has been found, the chase is handed over to the ground crew who have also been tracking the car and liaising with the police. While the Kia was recovered, many other popular brands are taken for spare parts. Grant Fraser, Netstar Group MD, told IOL that, in addition to popular vehicles such as VW Polos, Toyota Fortuner and Hilux models as well as the Nissan NP 200 being stolen for replacements, 'we are starting to see the high value vehicles' being taken. Fraser noted models such as Land Cruisers and Prados were often used in cash in transit heists as they can force a security truck off the road. Other higher-end vehicles were also set to be shipped overseas or across Africa, added Koen. Grant Fraser, Netstar Group MD Image: Nicola Mawson Vehicle theft, said Fraser, is about economics. While patterns have changed in the past few years post Covid-19, the current trend the Altron unit has seen is that thefts often happen over weekends, while hijackings take place from Wednesday to Friday, said Koen – although this does vary. 'Crime goes to where people go,' Koen said. Koen also said that crooks sometimes used luxury cars as getaway vehicles after a cash-in-transit heist, with another option being for them to use something as innocuous as a Hilux, while 29 cases of cash-in-transit robberies were reported by the SAPS in the last quarter of 2024. Fraser added that the company, which also offers truck fleet management solutions, has seen an increase in theft of cargo such as cellphones, cigarettes, alcohol, as well as metals like copper. Netstar's Robertson R44 Raven 2 helicopter Image: Nicola Mawson Netstar, which recovers about 700 vehicles a month with a more than 90% recovery rate, tracks total vehicles movements that are equivalent to a road going to the moon and back 4.5 times every hour. Given the current landscape as well as the technology and data available to companies like Netstar, it has been accelerating innovation, said Fraser. He added that innovation 'is helping us to improve our recovery rate'. The company is also working with Business 4 South Africa to help build safe corridors, with new technologies being geared towards protecting drivers as well as what they are carrying in their vehicles. 'We save lives; that is the priority, and we do that every single day,' said Fraser. IOL
