Govt Failing to Unmask FB Fake Accounts

The government has conceded that it is unable to unmask fake Facebook accounts, a position that experts say is misleading, as internet activity leaves digital footprints that can be traced by investigators equipped with the appropriate tools The government has admitted its inability to trace fake Facebook accounts that are tormenting citizens, laying bare significant gaps in the country’s digital enforcement and cybercrime response capacity. Appearing before the Standing Committee on Government Assurance under the Ministry of State President, Defence and Security, Acting Permanent Secretary Jeremiah Makgwa acknowledged that law enforcement agencies are struggling to clamp down on anonymous online accounts that target individuals and disseminate harmful content. Makgwa said investigators often encounter challenges in tracing the origin of such accounts, making it difficult to identify and prosecute those responsible.

He added that digital footprints are frequently concealed or routed through complex technological systems that complicate investigations. According to Makgwa, enforcement efforts remain constrained because key provisions of the proposed Cybersecurity Act, 2025, and related cybercrime enforcement mechanisms are not yet fully operational. He said authorities are currently relying on existing legislation, including the Cybercrime and Computer Related Crimes Act, 2018, while awaiting the rollout of stronger enforcement tools and investigative capabilities.

Despite reports being lodged with law enforcement agencies, the identity of the individual or individuals behind the account was never publicly established, and the account remained active for an extended period. Although the France Museveni account disappeared following the 2024 General Election, concerns over anonymous online activity have persisted. Makgwa’s remarks appear to contrast with views previously expressed by Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) senior cybersecurity architect, Dr Trust Mapoka. In an interview withThe Botswana Gazetteearlier this year, Mapoka argued that no one is truly anonymous online because internet activity leaves digital footprints that can be traced by investigators equipped with the appropriate tools.