Whatsapp message resulting in a fine or imprisonment The new Bill not only affects individuals but has a large impact on electronic service providers and financial institutions. Thursday, 10 June 2021, 08:43 The Cyber-crimes Bill creates offences and criminalizes certain messages that are sent via social media. Sponsored Content BUSINESS NEWS - With the development of the internet and social media the past 20 years, not only has it meant that we have access to the internet and social media 24 hours a day, but it has also made us vulnerable to increasing cyber-attacks. South Africa, like many other countries, was vulnerable to cyber-attacks for many years, as there was no legislation in place to protect individuals and institutions against these attacks.