Ransomware, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered cyberattacks, business email compromise (BEC) and organised online scams are among seven major cyber threats threatening Africa’s digital security landscape, according to a new INTERPOL report.

According to the INTERPOL African Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2026, ransomware remains one of the most disruptive threats, with South Africa accounting for 92% of ransomware detections recorded across Africa in 2025.

Organised online scams were identified as one of Africa’s most widespread cybercrime threats, with criminals using phishing, romance scams, AI tools and social media manipulation to defraud individuals and businesses.

"The latest survey findings from INTERPOL African member countries and private partners, combined with regional cybersecurity reports, identify online scams, ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), and digital sextortion as the most significant cyberthreats.

"Online scams are sharply increasing in several countries as cybercriminals constantly adapt their methods to exploit vulnerabilities and defraud both individuals and businesses. Fraudulent activities, including phishing and romance scams, have grown increasingly sophisticated through the strategic use of social engineering, artificial intelligence, and manipulation via social media platforms," it stated.

Business Email Compromise (BEC) was also found to be a major financial threat, with 70% of detections originating from South Africa and 29% from Nigeria.

"Data from INTERPOL’s private sector partners indicate a sharp rise in BEC-related cybercriminal activity across Africa, both in attack volume and financial impact. A substantial number of BEC criminals operate from the continent, particularly in West Africa.

"According to data from INTERPOL private partners, 11 African nations account for the majority of BEC activity originating from the continent, with a concentration of BEC activity in Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa," the report stated.

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Mobile money fraud was also identified by 97% of responding countries as the continent’s most prevalent online scam.

"Mobile wallet fraud has risen sharply. Scammers employ social engineering tactics to hijack accounts and solicit emergency funds from unsuspecting contacts. Mobile money fraud, including SIM swap scams and telecom impersonation, is widespread, while identity theft fuels a rise in fraudulent schemes related to investments, betting, and online shopping," it indicated.

INTERPOL also warned that AI-enabled digital sextortion is increasing, with criminals using deepfake technology to create fake intimate images from victims’ social media photographs before demanding payment.

Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Mali were among countries experiencing rising cases, particularly involving young people.

The report further noted that data breaches are fuelling other forms of cybercrime, with African-origin data appearing on dark web marketplaces increasing by 62%.

INTERPOL said stolen personal information is being reused for identity theft, phishing attacks, financial fraud and ransomware campaigns.

The agency warned that artificial intelligence is transforming cybercrime by enabling criminals to automate phishing campaigns, generate deepfake content, create synthetic identities and develop more sophisticated malware.

It called for stronger regional cooperation, harmonised cybercrime laws, improved digital forensic capabilities and increased investment in cybersecurity to address Africa’s evolving cyber threat landscape, as criminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence to create convincing emails impersonating company executives in attempts to divert payments and steal sensitive financial information.

JKB/BAI

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