Ghana: Adopted Cybersecurity Act 2020 (Act 1038) including content moderation regulation

On 6 November 2020, the Cybersecurity Act 2020 (Act 1038) was adopted by the Parliament of the Republic of Ghana. The Act specifies that owners or operators of computer online services, weblogs, internet services, or internet bulletin board services are prohibited from aiding or permitting the creation, production, publication, streaming, or possession of indecent images or photographs of children through their services. Additionally, they must ensure that their platforms are not used to solicit or encourage unlawful sexual conduct with children. The Act also mandates that service providers prevent the use of their platforms for cyberstalking, which involves compiling or disseminating identifying information on children to arrange unlawful sexual activities. Furthermore, they must prohibit the use of their services for sexual extortion, where threats to distribute intimate images of children are made to extort money or compel unwanted sexual activity. The Authorities, upon court order, can direct service providers to block, filter, or take down illegal content and malicious phone numbers threatening national cybersecurity. Grounds for such actions include protecting national security, children, public safety, preventing crimes, safeguarding health, reputation, confidential information, and complying with legal orders.