Cybercrime: South Africa most targeted country in Africa – Report
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GUEST – Pieter Stemmet, the Technical Operations Manager at ESET
South Africa has emerged as the most targeted country in Africa for ransomware and infostealer attacks, accounting for over 40% of ransomware incidents and nearly 35% of infostealer attacks across the continent in the second half of 2024.
With its leading digital economy and relatively strong financial sector, South Africa has become a prime target for cybercriminals who exploit the vast amounts of sensitive data stored online.
From government entities like the National Health Laboratory Service to critical infrastructure like the South African Weather Service, no sector is immune. These attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with cybercriminals honing in on high-value targets—especially those with the means to pay ransoms.
South Africa has emerged as the most targeted country in Africa for ransomware and infostealer attacks, accounting for over 40% of ransomware incidents and nearly 35% of infostealer attacks across the continent in the second half of 2024.
With its leading digital economy and relatively strong financial sector, South Africa has become a prime target for cybercriminals who exploit the vast amounts of sensitive data stored online.
From government entities like the National Health Laboratory Service to critical infrastructure like the South African Weather Service, no sector is immune. These attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with cybercriminals honing in on high-value targets—especially those with the means to pay ransoms.