In December 2024, Check Point Software Technologies reported rising cyber threats in Africa, highlighting Ethiopia, Uganda, Angola, Ghana, and Nigeria as the most attacked. FunkSec, a ransomware group utilizing AI, emerged as a key threat. Organizations are urged to adopt advanced defensive measures against evolving malware attacks.
The Global Threat Index released by Check Point Software Technologies for December 2024 highlights the increasing sophistication of cybercrime in Africa. Ethiopia ranked first on the continent with a 98.2% Normalised Risk Index, indicated as the most attacked country. Uganda, Angola, Ghana, and Nigeria also made the top 20 list, highlighting a concerning trend of cyber threats affecting the region.
In terms of specific rankings, Uganda stands at 8th place with a Normalised Risk Index of 68.2, followed closely by Angola (9th, 66.2), Ghana (11th, 62.7), and Nigeria (13th, 62.3). Notably, Kenya’s risk index increased, moving from 20th to 17th place at 57.6, while Mozambique and Cote d’Ivoire earned the 18th and 20th spots respectively, with indices of 56.9 and 55.6.
A key finding in December was the rise of threats from FunkSec, a ransomware-as-a-service operator utilizing AI, alongside established malware like FakeUpdates and AgentTesla. FunkSec was identified as the most active group, being responsible for about 14% of attacks and targeting financial gain through double-extortion tactics. However, some claims made by FunkSec are being questioned regarding their authenticity.
FakeUpdates emerged as a leading malware globally, impacting 5% of organizations, with AgentTesla and Androxgh0st closely following. FakeUpdates, also referred to as SocGholish, is recognized for delivering malicious payloads and targeting sensitive user data. This shift in focus highlights the evolving nature of cyber threats prevalent in the current landscape.
Maya Horowitz, VP of Research at Check Point Software, emphasized the necessity for organizations to exercise vigilance amid these trends. They must implement advanced threat prevention strategies to effectively counteract a landscape rife with complex and sophisticated cyber threats.
The Global Threat Index serves to inform organizations and policymakers of the changing dynamics of cyber threats across the globe. By focusing on Africa in December 2024, it sheds light on specific countries facing the highest risks. Understanding these threats, especially regarding emerging ransomware technologies and prevalent malware variants, is crucial for developing effective cybersecurity measures.
The December 2024 Global Threat Index reveals that Ethiopia leads as the most attacked country in Africa, followed by Uganda, Angola, Ghana, and Nigeria. The findings stress the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures, particularly in light of the growing sophistication of threats like FunkSec and FakeUpdates. Stakeholders must adopt innovative protection strategies to protect against the evolving threat landscape.
Original Source: www.intelligentcio.com
