Ethiopia and Other African Nations Face Escalating Cyber Threats…

The December 2024 Global Threat Index reveals escalating cyber threats in Africa, with Ethiopia identified as the most attacked nation. Eight African countries made the top 20 list, alongside notable new threats from the FunkSec Ransomware group. Key malware threats include FakeUpdates and AgentTesla, emphasizing the urgent need for robust cybersecurity strategies.

Check Point Software Technologies has released its Global Threat Index for December 2024, detailing a rise in cybercrime sophistication. The report highlights that eight countries in Africa ranked among the top 20 most attacked, exhibiting serious cybersecurity concerns for the continent. Ethiopia continues to hold the top position as the most targeted nation with a Normalised Risk Index of 98.2%, outpacing the other examined countries.

In the rankings, Uganda is noted in 8th place with a Normalised Risk Index of 68.2, followed closely by Angola in 9th place at 66.2. Ghana is positioned 11th with a Normalised Risk Index of 62.7, while Nigeria comes in at 13th with a Normalised Risk Index of 62.3, not far behind Ghana. Kenya demonstrates an upward trend, rising from 20th to 17th place with a Normalised Risk Index of 57.6.

Mozambique follows in 18th position with a Normalised Risk Index of 56.9, and Cote d’Ivoire rounds out the top 20 at position 20 with a Normalised Risk Index of 55.6, an increase from the previous month. The report indicates that December saw a notable rise in malware activity, primarily attributed to FunkSec, a new ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) operator utilizing artificial intelligence.

FunkSec’s growing prominence is underscored by its responsibility for 14% of published attacks in December, focusing on both financial gain and hacktivist motives. Despite claims of being the most active ransomware group, many reported attacks are flagged as recycled or unverified, casting doubt on FunkSec’s trustworthiness. Overall, the use of advanced technologies in cybercrime appears to be increasing.

Certain malware threats were particularly prevalent across the globe. FakeUpdates took the lead, impacting 5% of global organizations, followed by AgentTesla and Androxgh0st at 3% each. The versatile nature of FakeUpdates facilitates the introduction of additional malicious payloads, while AgentTesla remains focused on stealing sensitive credentials.

Maya Horowitz, the Vice President of Research at Check Point Software, remarked on the urgency of adapting cybersecurity measures. She stated, “The latest trends in cybercrime underscore the importance of vigilance and innovation in cybersecurity. Organizations must leverage advanced threat prevention measures to protect themselves against the evolving landscape of sophisticated attacks.”

In summary, the Global Threat Index for December 2024 reveals a significant increase in cyber threats across Africa, particularly with Ethiopia remaining the most targeted country. FunkSec’s emergence as a leading ransomware group highlights the escalating sophistication of cybercriminals, necessitating enhanced cybersecurity measures. As the landscape continues to evolve, organizations must stay vigilant and adopt innovative strategies to counter these growing threats.

Original Source: www.intelligentcio.com