Africa has become a prime target for cybercriminals, with the continent experiencing a surge in cyberattacks in 2024. According to recent data, several major organizations in Africa fell victim to cyberattacks last year, resulting in significant financial losses and compromised sensitive data. In this article, we will delve into the details of 10 major cyberattacks that targeted African organizations in 2024, highlighting the growing concern of digital security in the region.

The rapid growth of technology and internet penetration in Africa has brought about numerous benefits, but it has also raised concerns about cyberattacks, which mostly target the most digitally exposed regions. The most digitally developed countries in Africa, including Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa, and Kenya, have become hotspots for cybercriminals, with internet user numbers reaching 103 million, 82 million, 45 million, and 23 million, respectively, according to Statista data.

South Africa and Egypt were the most targeted countries, accounting for 22% and 13% of cyberattacks in the region, respectively. The financial sector was the second most targeted, after government establishments, with 22% of successful cyberattacks. This trend is alarming, considering the potential consequences of compromised financial data and the impact on the economy.

One of the most significant cyberattacks in 2024 was on Cameroon's energy company, Eneo, which faced a cyberattack in January that disrupted its computer systems. The company withheld specific details about the breach, but it is clear that the attack had a significant impact on its operations. Another notable attack was the GhostLocker 2.0 ransomware attack, which targeted organizations in South Africa, Egypt, and other countries, encrypting data and demanding payment for decryption keys.

In February 2024, major mobile providers in Uganda, including Airtel, MTN, and Uganda Telecom, came under attack by the hacktivist group Anonymous Sudan. The companies were subjected to DDoS attacks, which disrupted their core operations. The Bank of Uganda also confirmed attacks by offshore hackers, identifying as "Waste," which resulted in the theft of 62 billion Ugandan shillings ($16.8 million).

Other notable cyberattacks in 2024 included the security breach at Flutterwave in Nigeria, which led to unauthorized transfers of up to ₦11 billion ($7 million); the ransomware attack on Telecom Namibia, which resulted in the leak of sensitive customer data; and the hacking of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) website in Nigeria, which displayed a blank page with the message "Page Hacked."

The Micro and Small Enterprise Authority (MSEA) in Kenya was also hacked, exposing sensitive government and organizational data on the dark web. The leaked data, including employee records, government correspondence, financial statements, and business registrations, was listed for sale at $100,000. Furthermore, the South African National Health Laboratory System (NHLS) suffered a cyberattack that severely disrupted the country's public health system, and the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) in South Africa reported an attempted security breach targeting personal information of clients and employees.

The growing trend of cyberattacks in Africa is a cause for concern, and it is essential for organizations and governments to take proactive measures to enhance their digital security. This includes investing in robust cybersecurity systems, conducting regular security audits, and educating employees and customers about the risks of cyberattacks. The African continent must come together to address this growing threat and ensure a safer digital environment for its citizens.

In conclusion, the 10 major cyberattacks on African organizations in 2024 highlight the need for enhanced digital security measures in the region. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for Africa to stay ahead of cybercriminals and protect its sensitive data and financial systems. Only through collective efforts can we create a safer digital landscape for the continent.