INCM strengthens mechanisms to block users who threaten national security

Mozambique's National Communications Institute (INCM) announced on Tuesday the strengthening of mechanisms to block subscribers who disseminate messages considered threatening to public order, the integrity of individuals, or the security of the State. The information was shared during a press conference held by the regulatory body.

According to INCM, this is not an unprecedented measure, but rather an update to the 2014 regulation, which had already been revised in 2023. The new version, however, incorporates adjustments designed to adapt to the current dynamics of digital communications and the increasing spread of harmful content through mobile platforms.

The institution also revealed that it possesses technological tools capable of tracing the origin of messages that jeopardize social stability, allowing it to identify the first subscriber to disseminate them. Depending on the severity of the situation, the regulator can apply the blocking of numbers individually, massively, or even by specific regions.

Furthermore, INCM emphasized that blocking a user may be accompanied by the initiation of legal proceedings aimed at holding those involved criminally responsible. In this way, the measure intends to deter behaviors that jeopardize collective peace and security, ensuring that digital space is used responsibly and safely.

This decision comes in a context marked by growing challenges in controlling disinformation and the misuse of communication technologies, especially through social networks and mobile messaging applications.