Title: Cyber Law and Privacy: A Review of Regulations in the USA and Africa
Authors: James Paul Onoja, Oladimeji Hamza, Anuoluwapo Collins, Ubamadu Bright Chibunna, Adeoluwa Eweja, Andrew Ifesinachi Daraojimba
Volume: 9
Issue: 3
Pages: 540-547
Publication Date: 2025/03/28
Abstract:
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the need for comprehensive cyber laws and privacy regulations has become paramount to safeguard individuals, organizations, and nations from the escalating threats in the digital landscape. This study delves into a comparative analysis of cyber law and privacy regulations in two distinct regions-the United States of America and Africa. In the United States, a multifaceted legal framework has evolved to address the complexities of cyberspace. Landmark legislation such as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA), Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA), and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) form the backbone of cyber law, covering a spectrum of issues from unauthorized access to data breaches and financial information protection. The USA PATRIOT Act, enacted post-9/11, extends the government's surveillance capabilities to combat terrorism, raising debates around the delicate balance between security and privacy. Contrastingly, Africa is witnessing a dynamic evolution in its approach to cyber law and privacy. With the African Union adopting the Convention on Cybersecurity and Data Protection in 2014, the continent embarked on a journey to harmonize legal frameworks across nations. The Convention, coupled with regional initiatives, demonstrates a collective effort to combat cyber threats, foster digital innovation, and protect citizens' privacy. Both regions face common challenges, including jurisdictional issues, cross-border data flows, and the delicate interplay between national security imperatives and individual privacy rights. The study explores how the USA's sectoral regulatory approach and Africa's continental and regional collaboration reflect distinct strategies in addressing these challenges. Furthermore, the study critically evaluates the effectiveness of existing regulations in both regions against the backdrop of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things. It underscores the imperative for adaptive legal frameworks that can keep pace with the evolving cyber landscape, ensuring robust protection of individual privacy rights while fostering innovation and economic growth. In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the cyber law and privacy regulations in the USA and Africa, offering insights into their similarities, differences, and the ongoing efforts to strike a delicate balance between security imperatives and individual rights in an increasingly interconnected world.