Kaspersky warns of rising AI-driven cyber threats in South Africa, noting an average of 19 incidents per organization. Key findings include a 34% increase in banking malware and significant surges in backdoor and exploit attacks. The report stresses proactive cybersecurity measures, including threat intelligence and employee training, to mitigate risks.
Kaspersky’s recent report highlights alarming AI-driven cyber threats and increasing banking malware in South Africa, calling for proactive cybersecurity measures. Organizations in this region faced an average of 19 cyber incidents within a year, according to the 25th Cyber Security Summit held in Johannesburg. In 2024, Kaspersky identified 467,000 malicious files daily, a 14% rise from 2023, emphasizing the urgent need for robust security strategies.
The report reveals that over 34.2% of South African Kaspersky users encountered web-related threats in the past year, with banking malware increasing by 34%. Additionally, password stealer detections rose by 14%, while exploit attacks surged by 55%. Backdoor access attempts also spiked by 42%, presenting significant risks for compromised systems and personal identities.
Kaspersky warns that the crimeware landscape is becoming more versatile, with cybercriminals adopting a multi-platform approach. The Grandoreiro banking trojan, previously known in Latin America, has now targeted 1,700 financial institutions and 276 cryptocurrency wallets across 45 countries, including South Africa and various other African nations, underscoring the global reach of these threats.
Experts indicate a concerning rise in AI-enhanced cyber threats, as attackers leverage AI technology for phishing, malware development, and sophisticated attacks. Moreover, with the shift to cloud services, security risks from data breaches and misconfigurations are escalating. Social engineering, especially phishing and deepfakes, further compounds human errors as a primary cybersecurity issue.
To defend against these evolving threats, Kaspersky recommends a proactive cybersecurity stance that includes gathering industry-specific threat intelligence, deploying advanced security solutions like Kaspersky Next, and enhancing employee training programs. Regular threat assessments and penetration testing are crucial to identifying vulnerabilities, thereby preventing exploitation.
In the light of increasing AI-driven cyber risks, businesses must implement a comprehensive security strategy that incorporates effective cybersecurity measures, employee awareness, and real-time threat intelligence. This integrated approach can safeguard assets, clientele, and corporate integrity in an increasingly perilous digital world.
Kaspersky’s report highlights the growing threat landscape in South Africa, noting the rise in AI-driven cyber threats and banking malware. It underscores the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies, including threat intelligence, advanced security solutions, and employee education. By adopting a comprehensive approach to security, businesses can better protect themselves against these evolving and sophisticated cyber risks.
Original Source: techafricanews.com
