Identity theft on social media

I recently discovered a person using my identity on various social media platforms. I have politely asked them to stop but they have refused. The impersonator claims it is not a crime since there is no physical harm. Is this true? What does the law say about impersonating another person online?
JM, Lindi

We are sorry to hear about this. Impersonating another person online is a criminal offence. According to section 15 of the Cybercrimes Act (Act No. 14 of 2015), it is prohibited for a person to use a computer system to impersonate another person. A person who does so commits an offence and is liable on conviction, to a fine of not less than TZS 5M or three times the value of undue advantage received by that person, whichever is greater, or to imprisonment for a term of not less than 7 years or to both. There is no requirement for physical harm to be present in order to hold an impersonator accountable. Since it is a criminal offence, you are advised to report this person to the police for further action. Your lawyer can guide you further.