The December 2024 Global Threat Index reveals Ethiopia as the most attacked African nation, followed by Uganda, Angola, Ghana, and Nigeria. Malware threats, particularly from the new FunkSec group, are escalating, warranting enhanced cybersecurity measures among organizations.
Check Point Software Technologies has released its Global Threat Index for December 2024, highlighting the escalating sophistication of cybercriminal activities. Among African nations, December was particularly alarming, as eight countries were listed in the top 20 most targeted worldwide. Ethiopia was noted to be the most attacked country, maintaining a Normalised Risk Index of 98.2%.
Other African nations that experienced significant cyber threats in the index are Uganda, which ranked 8th with a Normalised Risk Index of 68.2; Angola in 9th place with an index of 66.2; Ghana at 11th with 62.7; and Nigeria at 13th, close behind with an index of 62.3. Kenya’s risk index increased to 17th position with 57.6, while Mozambique and Cote d’Ivoire ranked 18th and 20th with indices of 56.9 and 55.6, respectively.
The report notes a notable rise in malware activity from the emerging ransomware-as-a-service operator, FunkSec. This group has taken advantage of Artificial Intelligence to execute their schemes, alongside established threats from malware families such as FakeUpdates and AgentTesla. FunkSec has been identified as the most active group, accounting for 14% of published attacks in December.
Originating from Algeria, FunkSec is believed to have financial motives and possible hacktivist affiliations, showcasing a trend towards high-tech approaches in cybercrime. Their operations have positioned them as leaders in the realm of double-extortion ransomware by publishing over 85 victim claims in December 2024, although many of these claims are regarded as potentially unverified.
Among the most common malware threats, FakeUpdates has reclaimed its status as the most prevalent globally, impacting 5% of organizations. AgentTesla and Androxgh0st followed closely, each affecting 3%. FakeUpdates remains a dangerous downloader by introducing additional malicious contents, while AgentTesla primarily targets confidential credentials.
Maya Horowitz, the Vice President of Research at Check Point Software, remarks on the findings, emphasizing the necessity for organizations to adopt advanced threat prevention strategies. “The latest trends in cybercrime underscore the importance of vigilance and innovation in cybersecurity” – Check Point Software Technologies.
The Global Threat Index provides a comprehensive analysis of the cyber threat landscape, reflecting the growing challenges posed by sophisticated cybercriminals. The highlights of the December 2024 report illustrate the vulnerability of African nations to cyberattacks, compelling organizations to reassess their cybersecurity measures.
In summary, the December 2024 Global Threat Index reveals a disturbing trend regarding cyberattacks in Africa, with Ethiopia standing out as the most targeted country. The activities of FunkSec and the prevalence of malware threats like FakeUpdates necessitate a proactive approach in cybersecurity to fend off these sophisticated attacks. Organizations are urged to adopt comprehensive threat prevention measures in response to the evolving cyber threat landscape.
Original Source: www.intelligentcio.com
