Kaspersky’s report highlights the rise of AI-driven cyber threats in South Africa, indicating an average of 19 incidents per organization over the past year. With significant increases in banking malware and web-borne threats, the need for proactive cybersecurity strategies is emphasized. Kaspersky advises businesses to implement advanced security measures, collect threat intelligence, and train employees to mitigate risks.
Kaspersky’s recent report reveals an alarming surge in AI-driven cyber threats in South Africa, which demands urgent financial and strategic responses from businesses. At the 25th Cyber Security Summit South Africa, Kaspersky unveiled that organizations reported, on average, 19 cyber incidents over the past year, highlighting the increasing vulnerabilities in the region. The report stresses the necessity for proactive cybersecurity strategies to protect against rising threats.
In 2024, Kaspersky detected 467,000 malicious files daily worldwide, marking a 14% increase from the prior year. Notably, 34.2% of South African Kaspersky users faced web-borne threats, emphasizing the growing dangers in the digital space. The report also noted a substantial rise in banking malware, which increased by 34%, posing significant challenges to financial institutions and consumers. Furthermore, password stealer detections have surged by 14%, raising the stakes for identity theft and data breaches.
The crimeware ecosystem is evolving with cybercriminals adopting a multi-platform approach that spans across regions. Kaspersky identified the Grandoreiro banking trojan’s expansion beyond Latin America into Africa and Asia, now targeting more than 1,700 financial institutions and over 276 cryptocurrency wallets across 45 nations. African nations affected include South Africa, Algeria, and Nigeria, showcasing the widespread nature of these threats.
Kaspersky experts are increasingly concerned about the rise of AI-enhanced cyber threats as attackers utilize AI for phishing scams, malware development, and automated attacks. Concurrently, cloud security risks are growing as businesses shift towards cloud services without adequate protective measures. Social engineering techniques remain prevalent, with human error being a critical vulnerability in cybersecurity defenses.
To counter these escalating threats, Kaspersky recommends that businesses implement proactive cybersecurity strategies, collecting relevant threat intelligence and employing advanced security solutions such as Kaspersky Next. Employee training is vital to minimize human error, while periodic threat assessments and penetration testing can help identify vulnerabilities before exploitation occurs.
With the emergence of AI-driven cybercrime, it is essential for decision-makers to develop an all-encompassing security strategy that integrates strong cybersecurity solutions, employee education, and threat intelligence. Such measures will strengthen the protection of assets, customers, and the overall reputation in a challenging digital environment.
In summary, the landscape of cybersecurity threats in South Africa is rapidly evolving, particularly with the rise of AI-driven attacks. Organizations face increasing incidents of malware and phishing scams, necessitating robust cybersecurity measures. Kaspersky emphasizes the importance of proactive strategies, employee training, and the implementation of advanced security solutions to effectively guard against potential threats. A comprehensive approach is critical for safeguarding business assets and ensuring a secure digital environment.
Original Source: techafricanews.com
