Ethiopia leads as the most attacked country on the Global Threat Index for December 2024, with Uganda, Angola, Ghana, and Nigeria also among the top 20 targeted nations. The index indicates a rise in sophisticated cyber threats, particularly from the emerging ransomware group FunkSec, which utilized artificial intelligence in their operations. Increased vigilance and innovative cybersecurity measures are crucial to combating these threats, according to Check Point Software’s research.
The Global Threat Index for December 2024 by Check Point Software Technologies highlights an alarming trend in cybersecurity, revealing that eight African nations are among the top 20 most attacked globally. Leading the list is Ethiopia, which maintains its position as the most targeted country with a staggering Normalised Risk Index of 98.2%. Uganda ranks eighth, Angola ninth, Ghana eleventh, and Nigeria thirteenth. Additionally, Kenya, Mozambique, and Côte d’Ivoire also appear on the list, reflecting a concerning rise in cyber threats across the continent.
The Global Threat Index serves to inform organizations and the public about the current state of cybersecurity threats. In December 2024, Africa’s rise in the index suggests that cybercriminal activity is not only increasing but also evolving in sophistication. The emergence of groups like FunkSec, which leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, marks a significant shift in how cybercrime is perpetrated, posing a serious threat to organizations across Africa and beyond.
The findings from the Global Threat Index indicate a dire need for enhanced cybersecurity measures within organizations, particularly in Africa. With Ethiopia continuing to face the highest number of attacks and the emergence of sophisticated ransomware groups like FunkSec, it is imperative for organizations to adopt innovative threat prevention strategies. Maya Horowitz’s remarks emphasize the pressing necessity for vigilance and adaptation in the face of evolving cyber threats.
Original Source: www.intelligentcio.com
