Cases of unlawful data interference in Tanzania have increased by 257.1 percent in the first six months of 2026, raising concerns about the security of information handled through digital platforms. According to the Crime and Road Safety Incidents Statistics January–June 2026 report, jointly prepared by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Tanzania Police Force, 75 cases of unlawful data interference were reported between January and June 2026, up from 21 in the same period last year.
The report attributes the increase in cybercrime cases to several factors, including poor economic conditions, declining moral values, globalisation and technological advancement, youth unemployment, and greed or the desire to acquire wealth through unlawful means. The report also shows that total reported cybercrime cases increased by 49.9 percent, from 497 in the first half of 2025 to 745 during the corresponding period in 2026, representing an increase of 248 cases.
Unlawful system interference increased by 144.4 percent, from 27 to 66 cases, while computer-related forgery doubled from 15 to 30 cases. Computer-related fraud also rose significantly, increasing by 77.8 percent, from 63 to 112 cases. Meanwhile, unlawful interception of communications increased by 45.1 percent, from 82 to 119 cases.
The report further shows that cases involving unsolicited messages rose by 192.9 percent, from 28 in 2025 to 82 in 2026. Online harassment cases rose by 30.6 percent, from 85 to 111, while offences involving the publication of false information increased by 19.2 percent, from 52 to 62 cases.
Inspector General of Police Camillus Wambura identified several factors contributing to the offences, including poor economic conditions and declining moral values. Other factors are globalisation and technological advancement, youth unemployment, and greed or the desire to acquire wealth through unlawful means.
The police force has continued to work closely with other defence and security agencies, domestic and international stakeholders, and members of the public to detect, prevent and combat crime across the country. The Police Force is also working with various institutions to prevent cybercrime and educate internet users about online safety.
The Police Force is emphasising the importance of protecting passwords and keeping them confidential to prevent cybercrime. With the increasing trend of cybercrime, the authorities are urging the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to prevent further crimes.
Key points
- Unlawful data interference cases in Tanzania surge by 257.1 percent in the first six months of 2026.
- Total reported cybercrime cases in Tanzania increase by 49.9 percent in the first half of 2026.
- The police force is working with various institutions to prevent cybercrime and educate internet users about online safety.
