How Common Are Cyberattacks In South Africa?

No photo availableCIO Africa authorByCarol Odero
3 min read
Brace yourself for cyberattacks in the Big Three by studying for threat actors and by being ahead of the curve.
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Research by cybersecurity specialists, Kaspersky, shows that Africa is falling prey to cyberattacks – with about 10 per cent of computers having had at least one malware attack during 2020. With that number expected to rise, it’s time for IT professionals to upskill themselves.

Although Africa is not seen as a focus area for APTs – or Advanced Persistent Threats – and highly targeted attacks, Kaspersky reports that “Africa has the same hit rate as we would see for other parts of the globe when it comes to cyber-attacks.” Kaspersky’s principal security researcher, David Emm, identifies “ransomware, financial or banking trojans, and crypto-miner malware” as the biggest cyberthreats in South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya.

These attacks are increasing, with a 14 per cent crypto-miner malware and a 24 per cent increase in ransomware attacks noted in South Africa. In Nigeria and Kenya, big increases in banking and financial trojans were noted in the 2nd quarter of 2021, with figures of 32 per cent and 59 per cent respectively for the two countries.

Who’s most at risk?

The financial sector, with its digital-first approach, remains the top target for cybercriminals in Africa. David Emm explains this is because it is relatively easy for hackers to target companies and individuals and “capture passcodes, one-time passwords and install malware” to access their financial information. Cyber fraud also offers hackers quick access to money. With financially based malware and cyberattacks becoming ever more sophisticated and target-specific, these attacks are very difficult to prevent – and they are becoming potentially more destructive.

The situation has been exacerbated by the pandemic offering a “wealth of opportunities” for cybercriminals, and the malware employed is changing accordingly. Whereas it used to be pretty random, cybercrooks are now focusing on specific individuals, businesses, and corporates where they can reap the maximum returns.

Now’s the time for IT professionals to upskill themselves in cybersecurity

In view of this growing cyber threat, it is crucial that IT professionals upskill themselves to deal with it effectively. In truth, cybercrime has developed into a growth industry! It has therefore never been more important for individuals and businesses to be vigilant and prepared. Staff need to receive cyber-focused training to become more skilled in coping with this menace. South African companies must use the latest technologies, machine learning and AI in real-time to proactively protect and defend themselves against cyber incursions.

Training opportunities in SA for cybersecurity and data protection

The good news is while the threat of cyberattacks is growing, so are the number of training courses and certificates available to help IT professionals fight back.

Here are just a few worth looking into:

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