Kenya says cyber cafés won’t need to monitor users’ browsing history
Kenya’s Communications Authority (CA) has clarified new licencing rules for cyber cafés, saying operators will be required to keep basic customer and session records but will not have to track users’ browsing histories.
Kenya's Communications Authority has stated that cyber cafés will no longer be required to monitor users' browsing history, only needing to maintain basic customer and session records. This clarification, issued on Thursday, comes after public discussion and media reports on the new rules for Public Communications Access Centres, which provide internet access to those without personal computers or reliable connectivity.
The new licensing rules, published on August 7, will take effect on September 7, following a 30-day period. Cyber café operators will still need to verify customers, record terminal usage and session times, display charges, and provide receipts for paid services. They must also securely retain customer and session records for at least three years, aiming to provide an audit trail for unlawful activities.
However, the requirement for browsing history tracking is not included. The Authority clarified that this does not mandate a specific customer identification system or CCTV solution. While operators can introduce additional Know Your Customer measures if necessary, they must comply with applicable laws. Cyber cafés will be expected to implement approved network filtering and security measures to block illegal or harmful content and source internet capacity from licensed providers.
Non-compliance could result in regulatory sanctions, including fines or suspension or closure. This decision is significant, as it addresses concerns over personal data collection, storage, and access in Kenya.
Written by urgent.news from TechCabal's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
