New research by global cybersecurity firm Performanta has suggested that Africa is being used as a proving ground for nation-state cyber warfare, disturbingly disclosing an upsurge in sophisticated ransomware attacks. Performanta’s analysis focused on cyber threat actor Medusa, a ransomware-as-a-service model menacing organisations around the globe. Markedly, the data derived from this study reveals a conspicuous pattern where developing countries seem to be the primary targets of such digital incursions before such tactics cross over to developed nations. The findings hint at the possibility of a pre-conceived strategy focusing on organisations within developing nations as initial marks.
Guy Golan, CEO and Executive Chairman of Performanta, said: “Our analysis suggests that BRICS nations, and particularly the African continent, have become a testing ground for nation-state attacks. To achieve a more cyber-safe environment for all organisations globally, we need to heighten awareness of this burgeoning issue. Understanding the trends and patterns of geopolitical cyber warfare is vital to clarify the global threat landscape.”
Performanta’s investigation has also provided a critical evaluation of how attackers are exploiting Africa, emphasising the significant risk facing the region. A decade-long scrutinisation of South Africa’s cyber threat landscape indicates that trained hackers are the frequent authors of such perilous invasions. The financial, manufacturing, and energy sectors are among the most vulnerable industries on the continent. Given that each successful nation-state-backed cyber assault costs an estimated USD $1.6 million per incident, the figures are indeed alarming.
Further analysis from Performanta shows a considerable rise in financial/banking trojans, evidenced by a notable upsurge of 59% in Kenya and 32% in Nigeria over a single quarter. Commenting on this, Golan added: “Attackers likely see attacking Africa as having fewer risks for them than striking the West directly. Given Africa’s status as an emerging economy and a potential bridge to the Western world, it’s probable that these methodologies are field-tested in Africa before being deployed in developed nations. Regardless of the motivation, both the West and Africa need to pursue long-term collaborative efforts to build robust defences against this threat.”
Performanta, which operates both in South Africa and the UK, is well-placed to serve as the nexus between nations, facilitating a cyber-safe defence against nation-state threats. This endeavours to curb the soaring costs of cyber-attacks and foster a more secure digital environment, not only for developing but also for developed countries, emboldening global fortitude against cyber warfare.
Performanta’s groundbreaking research underscores the urgent need for global collaboration in fortifying defences against nation-state cyber threats, with Africa emerging as a pivotal battleground. As ransomware attacks surge in sophistication and frequency, the findings emphasise the critical importance of heightened awareness and proactive cybersecurity measures.
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