Leadnaija
WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, used daily for chatting with friends, sharing jokes, and even doing business. However, many people don’t realize that what they send on WhatsApp can actually land them in serious legal trouble.
Here are 7 things you should never share on WhatsApp if you want to stay on the safe side of the law:
1. Hate Speech or Tribal Comments: Sharing messages that promote hate, tribalism, or discrimination can lead to charges under Nigeria’s cybercrime and hate speech laws.
2. Nude or Explicit Photos Without Consent: Forwarding someone’s private photos without their permission is not only unethical it’s illegal and could be considered cyber harassment.
3. Fake News and Rumors: Sharing unverified or false information, especially during elections or emergencies, can spread panic and cause harm. You could be held accountable.
4. Threatening Messages: Even if it’s a joke, threatening someone’s life or safety can be taken seriously and treated as a criminal offense.
5. Personal Data of Others: Sharing someone’s ID number, phone number, or address without consent can violate privacy laws.
6. Copyrighted Content: Distributing music, videos, or books without permission is a form of piracy, and you could be sued.
7. Leaked Government or Company Documents: Sharing confidential information can lead to prosecution under data protection or national security laws.
Always think twice before forwarding that message. Just because it’s on WhatsApp doesn’t mean it’s harmless.
