Check Point Software’s Global Threat Index for December 2024 identifies Ethiopia, Uganda, Angola, Ghana, and Nigeria as leading targets of cyber threats in Africa. FunkSec, a new ransomware group, has gained notoriety for its AI-enhanced attacks, increasing the urgency for robust cybersecurity practices across affected nations.
Check Point Software Technologies published its Global Threat Index for December 2024, revealing an alarming rise in cyber threats across Africa. Eight nations from the continent were included in the list of the top 20 most attacked countries, emphasizing the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals. Ethiopia is particularly concerning, holding the title of the most attacked nation with a Normalised Risk Index of 98.2 out of 106 countries evaluated.
Following Ethiopia, Uganda ranks eighth with a Normalised Risk Index of 68.2, while Angola is ninth with an index of 66.2. Ghana and Nigeria follow closely in 11th and 13th positions with indices of 62.7 and 62.3, respectively. Kenya has also seen an increase in threats, now positioned 17th with a Normalised Risk Index of 57.6, alongside Mozambique at 18th place with an index of 56.9. Cote d’Ivoire rounds out the list at 20th position with a Normalised Risk Index of 55.6.
In December, the focus on malware intensified, particularly concerning FunkSec, a new ransomware-as-a-service operator exploiting artificial intelligence. This group has emerged as the most active in December 2024, accounting for 14% of all recorded attacks. FunkSec operates primarily for financial gain, using advanced AI techniques to enhance its cybercriminal pursuits, indicating a troubling trend in cybercrime on the continent.
FunkSec’s operations have positioned it prominently among double-extortion ransomware groups, claiming over 85 victim organizations in December alone. Nonetheless, Check Point Research has identified many of the group’s claims as either recycled or unverified, raising questions about the credibility of FunkSec’s reported successes. This highlights the need for skepticism in assessing threats in the cybersecurity landscape.
Among notable malware threats, FakeUpdates emerged as the most pervasive globally, affecting 5% of organizations, trailed by AgentTesla and Androxgh0st, each impacting 3% of organizations. FakeUpdates serves as a versatile downloader for additional malicious payloads, while AgentTesla is known for targeting sensitive user credentials. The landscape of cybersecurity remains fraught with complex challenges, necessitating vigilant defenses against such threats.
Maya Horowitz, Vice President of Research at Check Point Software, elucidated the current situation, stating, “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.” Her statement reinforces the imperative for organizations to adopt robust security measures in light of these escalating threats.
The findings from Check Point Software Technologies reveal that cyber threats in Africa, particularly against countries like Ethiopia, Uganda, Angola, Ghana, and Nigeria, are increasing in severity and sophistication. The rise of groups such as FunkSec highlights the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures. As cybercriminals evolve their tactics, organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in preventing breaches through innovative security solutions.
Original Source: www.intelligentcio.com
