Cybercrimes Act, 2020 · Section 22
Orders on Finalisation of Criminal Proceedings
Section 22 deals with orders a trial court may or must make when proceedings concerning sections 14, 15 or 16 are finalised.
What the section does
Section 22 provides for orders relating to harmful data messages after criminal proceedings involving sections 14, 15 or 16 have been finalised.
Key points
- The trial court can deal with continued disclosure or access to the relevant data message.
- The section works alongside the protection-order mechanisms in sections 20 and 21.
- The Act also provides consequences relating to compliance with orders and certain costs incurred in removing or disabling access.
What this means in practice
A criminal case involving harmful online material is therefore not limited to punishment; the Act also provides mechanisms dealing with the material itself.
Important
This page is an educational explanation of the Cybercrimes Act. It is not legal advice and does not replace the Act, regulations, court decisions or advice from a qualified legal professional.
Official source
Read the official Cybercrimes Act from the South African Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
Cybercrimes Act, 2020 — official PDF