Kaspersky has warned of increasing cyber threats in Africa, highlighting phishing, spyware, and local malware attacks. These threats surged between 2023 and 2024. The company shared its findings ahead of GITEX Africa 2025, which will take place in Morocco from April 14-16, 2025.
From 2023 to 2024, businesses in Africa faced significant cybersecurity challenges. Kaspersky recorded 66 million phishing link clicks across the continent. Over 14.8 million of those were from corporate users. Web threats were also on the rise, with 131 million attacks detected. Kenya, South Africa, and Morocco were among the hardest-hit countries.
Local (on-device) threats, like malware from USB drives and CDs, grew by 4%. Nigeria saw the biggest increase at 169%. Ethiopia, South Africa, Senegal, and Morocco also saw increases in local threats.
Data theft has become a serious concern. Kaspersky reported a 14% increase in spyware attacks on businesses. Spyware secretly monitors and collects data from users’ devices. Password stealer attacks also grew by 26%. These attacks steal login credentials and sensitive information.
The surge in cyber threats is driven by various factors. In the B2B sector, the shift to hybrid work models and fast digitalisation may have left businesses vulnerable. In the B2C space, the rise of digital financial services and low digital literacy rates make individuals prime targets for cybercriminals.
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Kaspersky Offers Cybersecurity Recommendations
Kaspersky offers advice to stay safe online. Users should avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources. They should not click on suspicious links. Two-factor authentication should always be used. Strong, unique passwords and a password manager are essential. Users should also keep their software up to date and use reliable security solutions.
For organisations, Kaspersky recommends updating all software. Remote desktop services should not be exposed to public networks unless necessary. Backups of corporate data should be regularly made and isolated from the network.
Maher Yamout, Kaspersky’s Lead Cybersecurity Researcher, stressed the need for digital literacy. He said, “The factors driving these increases are multifaceted.” He also pointed out the importance of enhancing cybersecurity collaboration, and urged organisations to invest in training and promote digital literacy.
Yamout also highlighted the value of initiatives like the African Cyber Surge operation. These efforts can build a resilient digital ecosystem across Africa.
At GITEX Africa 2025, Kaspersky will showcase its cybersecurity solutions. It will also hold a keynote on the importance of human involvement in cybersecurity. The session will take place on April 15 at 2:10 PM at the Dark Stage.