Africa risks losing 10% of its annual production due to rising cyberattacks. Cyberattacks cause significant damage across the continent. They steal sensitive information from governments and organizations.
These attacks disrupt essential services and commit financial fraud. They also target national institutions and misappropriate assets from individuals and businesses. The African Economic Commission reports that private and religious organizations suffer major losses, including financial theft and compromised data.
Vulnerability of Businesses
About 90% of African businesses remain vulnerable to cyber threats. Many lack effective cybersecurity measures. The Commission warns that countries are unprepared to prevent these attacks. This lack of readiness could lead to a substantial decline in economic productivity.
Rising Cyber Threats
Recent data shows that cyberattacks have doubled in frequency over the past five months compared to the last five years. Insufficient cybersecurity infrastructure contributes to this increase. African News highlights the urgent need for a coordinated continental strategy to combat cybercrime, which threatens business operations throughout Africa.
Common Cyber Scams
In Ethiopia, various scams are prevalent. These include online marketplaces with fake discounts, spam emails from trusted companies, and bogus job offers. Travel-related fraud also poses a risk. Other scams involve fraudulent charities and phishing attempts over public Wi-Fi.
Recommendations for Cyber Safety
The Information Network Security Administration recommends several best practices:
- Regularly update software.
- Use strong passwords.
- Shop only on reputable websites.
- Be cautious about suspicious communications.
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