In 2024, South Africa recorded over 32 million blocked malware incidents, highlighting increasing cybersecurity threats. Users must be cautious about phishing attempts, particularly involving well-known brands like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft. Free video hosting sites are significant malware hotspots, and proactive security measures are essential for user protection.
In 2024, South Africa witnessed over 32 million blocked malware incidents, as reported by cybersecurity firm NordVPN. This surge underscores the escalating cybersecurity risks facing users. Specifically, internet users are cautioned against clicking on suspicious links, particularly those impersonating major tech companies. The likelihood of encountering phishing links that are deceptively similar to authentic brand URLs is significant.
NullVPN’s research indicates that Google, Facebook, and Microsoft are the most impersonated brands in phishing schemes, and approximately 300 brand names are frequently used in such attacks. Adrianus Warmenhoven, NordVPN’s cybersecurity advisor, stresses that although brands are not directly responsible, these scams can damage their reputations and exploit consumers’ trust in widely recognized names.
Last year, around 85,000 fake URLs impersonating Google were detected, with Facebook and Microsoft following with over 6,000 and 5,000 fake URLs, respectively. Noteworthy, fake links for companies like AT&T, Yahoo!, and Netflix should be approached with caution, with each having approximately 4,000 fraudulent URLs circulating.
South Africa leads the continent in malware incidents for 2024, with Kenya and Ghana reporting 23 million and almost 12 million incidents, respectively. NordVPN’s data reveal significant vulnerabilities in certain online domains, particularly free video hosting sites, which faced over 1.5 billion malware attempts this year.
Other domains with considerable malware issues include entertainment sites (approximately 1 billion incidents blocked) and sports domains (124 million), with adult content and file-sharing sites also featuring heavily in the data, facing malware blocks in the range of 74-109 million. The Threat Protection Pro™ function at NordVPN played a crucial role in blocking these threats during the year.
Warmenhoven warns that free video hosting categories often harbor multiple security threats, including malware and excessive tracking. He elaborates that in 2024, Threat Protection Pro™ blocked almost 7 billion ads and 119 billion trackers on video-hosting platforms, highlighting the pervasive nature of online threats.
Web trackers, which collect user data through methods such as cookies and scripts, pose privacy concerns. While businesses utilize trackers for targeted advertising, the potential for data breaches remains high. Users can implement tracker blockers to enhance online privacy and limit data exposure to third parties.
Malware encompasses harmful software designed to compromise or damage devices, including viruses and ransomware. A notable infection method is phishing, which tricks users into downloading malware via deceptive URLs mimicking reputable brands. Warmenhoven emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing these links before clicking.
Intrusive ads further degrade the online experience, with many employing aggressive tactics to capture user attention. Such ads can result in device infections or lead users to malicious websites. To mitigate these issues, Warmenhoven recommends proactive measures, including avoiding suspicious links, verifying downloads, and maintaining updated software to protect against vulnerabilities.
In conclusion, South Africa faces significant cybersecurity challenges with 32 million malware incidents reported in 2024. Users are advised to remain vigilant against phishing attempts and suspicious links impersonating well-known brands. The data reveals a pressing need for enhanced security practices, particularly in high-risk online domains. Adopting tools like anti-malware software and track blockers is vital for protecting personal information and ensuring a safer online experience.
Original Source: www.georgeherald.com
