Ignorantia Juris Non Excusat – Understanding the Impact of the Law on the SA Hacker Community

Abstract

Many cybersecurity researchers and ethical hackers are becoming the target of criminal prosecutions and litigation, essentially for trying to do the right thing, and acting in an ethical manner. The reality is that cybersecurity researchers, practitioners and ethical hackers do run the risk of running afoul of both criminal and civil law in South Africa. This talk will explore the various laws and legal actions that could impact on them, and how to work within the framework of the law in South Africa, and essentially keep them safe from legal harm. The talk will cover the various activities that cybersecurity researchers, practitioners and ethical hackers undertake, and explore the various legal issues that may impact on these activities.