Africa susceptible to cyber threats

WITH technology advancing at a rapid rate throughout Africa, a lack of proper measures for ensuring cybersecurity has made the continent susceptible to cyber threats.

A report titled The Role of Cybersecurity in Safeguarding Africa’s Digital Transformation paints a picture of a continent growing rapidly fast in the technology space but battling to deal with the increasing frequency and complexity of cyberattacks.

Those attacks threaten the security of individuals, businesses, and the socioeconomic development of the continent.

“The continent is estimated to lose $4 billion (E75,3 billion) annually to cybercrime, and Africa’s low level of preparedness in cybersecurity is costing Member States on average 10% of their GDP,” the report found.

The study further indicates that the interconnected nature of cyberspace amplifies the impact of cybersecurity on national security. As Africa’s digital transformation accelerates, the potential ramifications of cyber threats on sovereign nations become increasingly pronounced, it states.

“Critical infrastructures, such as energy grids, healthcare systems, and financial institutions, are enticing targets for cyber adversaries. Robust cybersecurity measures are not merely a technical requirement but a strategic imperative to safeguard national interests.”

“Nation-states are not only grappling with conventional security threats but also with the sophisticated realm of cyber espionage. State-sponsored threats pose unique challenges, demanding a strategic

approach to cybersecurity that aligns with broader national defence strategies.”

Locally, the most common cyber threats include phishing attacks which involve fraudulent emails or messages designed to deceive recipients into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers.

Another threat is Malware, short for malicious software, which is a broad category of software created to harm, exploit, or infiltrate computer systems. It includes viruses, spyware, and Trojans, among others.

Ransomware is another threat which is a particularly insidious form of malware that encrypts a victim’s files, demanding a ransom for the decryption key. The Kingdom has experienced its fair share of ransomware incidents, and the costs associated with paying ransomware can be significant.

A local cyber security expert Sibonelo Mavimbela said social engineering attacks are another factor affecting the country, they manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise their security. These attacks often target the human element, exploiting trust and vulnerability. In Eswatini, such attacks have been reported, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance.

While awareness of the threats is crucial, practical steps to protect oneself from cyber threats are equally important. Mavimbela stated that people should be vigilant about what links they click on and what attachments they open, especially if the source is unknown or suspicious.

Furthermore, they should strengthen their online security by using complex, unique passwords for each account enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible and regularly updating their operating systems, applications, and antivirus software to patch known vulnerabilities.

The report states that the way forward involves targeted investments in cybersecurity education, standardized regulatory frameworks, public-private partnerships, continued innovation, and community awareness programs. Strengthening Africa’s digital landscape demands a holistic and dynamic approach.

“Governments, civil society and the private sector must

pool their resources, knowledge, and expertise to develop comprehensive cybersecurity strategies and frameworks. This united effort will better protect Africa’s digital interests and lead to a prosperous future for the continent,” the report said.

The picture painted is that of a digitally resilient Africa, standing at the forefront of transformation and serving as a beacon of cybersecurity resilience.

organizations,

Unique Cybersecurity Challenges in

Africa

In the vibrant aspect of Africa’s digital revolution, unique challenges present formidable hurdles to the seamless integration of cybersecurity measures.

These challenges, rooted in infrastructure limitations, talent shortages, and ever-evolving threats, demand astute attention and innovative solutions to fortify Africa’s digital resilience.

Infrastructure Limitations and Impacts

Africa’s digital transformation unfolds against a backdrop of diverse infrastructures, where disparities in connectivity and technology penetration persist. The digital divide, characterized by uneven access to reliable internet connectivity and outdated infrastructure (software and hardware), poses a significant challenge.

Remote and rural areas often grapple with limited or inconsistent access, rendering them more vulnerable to cyber threats. Moreover, the reliance on legacy systems and outdated technologies in certain regions amplifies vulnerabilities, making them prime targets for cyber-attacks. Addressing

these infrastructure limitations require strategic investments in building robust and inclusive digital infrastructure, extending connectivity to underserved areas, and modernizing legacy systems to align with the latest cybersecurity standards.

The shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals is a pressing concern across the continent. According to a report by the African Development Bank, Africa faces a significant shortage of technology talent, with an estimated 4 million new technology jobs

Skills Shortages: Navigating

Gap

The Role of Cybersecurity in Safeguarding Africa’s

the

Digital Transformation

Talent

expected to be created by 2025 and only enough skilled professionals to fill 50% of these roles.

The rapid expansion of the digital virtual space has outpaced the development of a skilled workforce capable of combating sophisticated cyber threats. Africa faces a talent gap in cybersecurity expertise, from specialists proficient in threat detection and incident response to professionals adept at implementing robust security measures.

Investments in education and training programs focused on cybersecurity are pivotal in nurturing a cadre of skilled professionals equipped to navigate the complex cybersecurity terrain. Collaboration between academia, industry, and government bodies to foster skill development certifications, and mentorship programs is essential to bridge this critical

gap.

Emerging Cyber Threats in Africa

Ransomware Resurgence: Ransomware attacks have witnessed a resurgence, targeting businesses, healthcare institutions, and government agencies. Attackers are becoming more sophisticated, employing advanced encryption techniques and demanding higher ransom payments.

“As Africa strides confidently into the digital age, the digital transformation narrative is interwoven with the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Understanding the nuances of the current threat landscape, discerning the latest trends in cyber-attacks, and identifying potential vulnerabilities specific to the African context is imperative in shaping effective cybersecurity strategies,” the report said.

The contemporary threat landscape in Africa is marked by a confluence of traditional and novel cyber threats, presenting multifaceted challenges to the continent’s digital resilience.

While longstanding issues such as phishing attacks, malware infections, and credential theft persist, new and sophisticated threats are emerging.

“Cyber espionage, fueled by geopolitical tensions, is on the rise, targeting critical infrastructure, government entities, and businesses. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTS) from state-sponsored actors underscore the need for heightened cybersecurity vigilance. Additionally, as Africa becomes more interconnected, the prevalence of cross-border cybercrime adds a layer of complexity to the threat landscape.

The expansion of the Internet of Things (IOT) introduces a new dimension to cyber threats. Inadequately secured IOT devices serve as potential entry points for malicious actors, heightening the risk of large-scale cyber incidents,” the report found.