Check Point Software Technologies’ Global Threat Index for December 2024 reveals rising cyber threats targeting eight African nations, with Ethiopia leading as the most attacked. The emergence of FunkSec, a ransomware group using AI, has intensified concerns in cybersecurity. Significant malware threats include FakeUpdates and AgentTesla, requiring urgent attention in threat prevention and innovation.
Check Point Software Technologies has published its Global Threat Index for December 2024, revealing a concerning trend in cyber threats targeting African nations. Eight countries from the continent rank among the top 20 most attacked globally, illustrating an alarming increase in cybercriminal activities. Ethiopia remains the most targeted nation, recording a Normalised Risk Index of 98.2% among the 106 included countries.
The rankings indicate that Uganda placed 8th with a Normalised Risk Index of 68.2, while Angola is close behind in 9th with an index of 66.2. Ghana and Nigeria also feature prominently at 11th and 13th positions, with index scores of 62.7 and 62.3, respectively. Additionally, Kenya’s risk index rose to 57.6, moving from 20th to 17th position, while Mozambique and Cote d’Ivoire hold the 18th and 20th positions, with indices of 56.9 and 55.6 respectively.
This month, the malware landscape has shifted, predominantly due to the emergence of FunkSec, a new ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) entity utilizing artificial intelligence. This group, linked to Algeria, has gained notoriety for its aggressive tactics, becoming the most active ransomware group in December, accounting for 14% of all verified attacks. Despite its claims, much of FunkSec’s reported activity has been flagged as unverified, necessitating caution regarding its credibility.
Among the top malware threats, FakeUpdates has once again secured its position as the leading global threat, impacting 5% of organizations worldwide. Additionally, AgentTesla and Androxgh0st have affected 3% of organizations each. FakeUpdates operates as a versatile downloader, often delivering various malicious payloads, while AgentTesla is well-known for targeting sensitive user credentials.
Maya Horowitz, the Vice President of Research at Check Point Software Technologies, emphasized the necessity of vigilance in cybersecurity, 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.”
In summary, Ethiopia continues to lead as the most attacked country in Africa, with significant threats posed by cybercriminal groups like FunkSec. The findings highlight the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity measures across the continent, particularly as ransomware and malware threats evolve. Monitoring and defensive strategies must adapt to safeguard organizations against these complex and increasing cyber threats.
Original Source: www.intelligentcio.com
