Can your social media flexes land you in jail? Here's what one state has to say about it
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In today's digital age, everything ends up online.
Whether it's a photo of your grandkids, videos of animals doing cute things, or even disturbing content, they all have seen the light of the day.
While social media has become a tool to share important information, a council has noticed an uptick in its usage for dangerous things.
A growing number of offenders are taking to social media to 'post and boast' about their illegal activities, and Victoria has had enough.
The Victorian government is set to introduce strict laws targeting criminals using social media and messaging applications to brag about serious crimes.
Under the proposed legislation, anyone found guilty of posting their involvement in offences could face jail time.
These offences include affray, burglary, robbery, car theft, carjacking, home invasions, or violent disorder.
Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny explained that this move was in response to a worrying trend among young people.
'We're responding to what is a disturbing and increasing trend amongst particularly young offenders, who are broadcasting their criminality, their serious offences,' Attorney-General Kilkenny said.
'It is retraumatising victims. It is driving fear in our communities. We need to put a stop to it, and we need to do it now.'
The rise of social media has brought many benefits, especially for those who love to keep in touch with distant family and friends.
However, it has also created new challenges for law enforcement.
Criminals are no longer content with keeping their activities down low.
Instead, they have started sharing videos and photos of their crimes.
Other criminals have resorted to live streaming so viewers could can witness crimes in real time.
This behaviour glorifies illegal activities and could encourage offenders to engage in similar actions.
Prior to the new laws, posting about a crime online was an 'aggravating factor' in sentencing.
Yet, with the new legislation, it will now be a standalone offence.
On top of their initial sentence for the crime, offenders caught posting on social media could face two more years in jail time.
If you see something suspicious on social media, Police Minister Anthony Carbines urged everyone to report it to Crime Stoppers.
'Make a report. In many cases, we can only act when people make reports,' Police Minister Carbines said.
Victoria Police will also be given new powers to issue search warrants to pursue online crime and content.
The opposition is expected to support the legislation, having long called for a tougher stance on crime.
For most seniors, the idea of posting about a crime online is unthinkable.
However, these new laws should be a reminder of how quickly the digital landscape is changing, and sometimes, for the worse.
It could also raise awareness of what people should share online.
This news could be a reminder to talk to your children and grandchildren about the risks of oversharing online.
While social media can be a fantastic way to stay connected, it's important to use it wisely and responsibly.
Have you noticed this trend of 'posting and boasting' online? Could these new laws deter crime, or is it just another example of the government catching up with technology? We would love to hear your thoughts and opinions with us in the comments below.
RELATED NEWS: Are you sharing online? See how this new law could land you in trouble!
Whether it's a photo of your grandkids, videos of animals doing cute things, or even disturbing content, they all have seen the light of the day.
While social media has become a tool to share important information, a council has noticed an uptick in its usage for dangerous things.
A growing number of offenders are taking to social media to 'post and boast' about their illegal activities, and Victoria has had enough.
The Victorian government is set to introduce strict laws targeting criminals using social media and messaging applications to brag about serious crimes.
Under the proposed legislation, anyone found guilty of posting their involvement in offences could face jail time.
These offences include affray, burglary, robbery, car theft, carjacking, home invasions, or violent disorder.
Despite strict community guidelines, social media applications are still being used for criminal activity. Image Credit: Pexels/Magnus Mueller
Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny explained that this move was in response to a worrying trend among young people.
'We're responding to what is a disturbing and increasing trend amongst particularly young offenders, who are broadcasting their criminality, their serious offences,' Attorney-General Kilkenny said.
'It is retraumatising victims. It is driving fear in our communities. We need to put a stop to it, and we need to do it now.'
The rise of social media has brought many benefits, especially for those who love to keep in touch with distant family and friends.
However, it has also created new challenges for law enforcement.
Criminals are no longer content with keeping their activities down low.
Instead, they have started sharing videos and photos of their crimes.
Other criminals have resorted to live streaming so viewers could can witness crimes in real time.
This behaviour glorifies illegal activities and could encourage offenders to engage in similar actions.
Prior to the new laws, posting about a crime online was an 'aggravating factor' in sentencing.
Yet, with the new legislation, it will now be a standalone offence.
On top of their initial sentence for the crime, offenders caught posting on social media could face two more years in jail time.
If you see something suspicious on social media, Police Minister Anthony Carbines urged everyone to report it to Crime Stoppers.
'Make a report. In many cases, we can only act when people make reports,' Police Minister Carbines said.
Victoria Police will also be given new powers to issue search warrants to pursue online crime and content.
The opposition is expected to support the legislation, having long called for a tougher stance on crime.
For most seniors, the idea of posting about a crime online is unthinkable.
However, these new laws should be a reminder of how quickly the digital landscape is changing, and sometimes, for the worse.
It could also raise awareness of what people should share online.
This news could be a reminder to talk to your children and grandchildren about the risks of oversharing online.
While social media can be a fantastic way to stay connected, it's important to use it wisely and responsibly.
RELATED NEWS: Are you sharing online? See how this new law could land you in trouble!
