Africa's cybercrime hotspots: Nations leading in scam notifications

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.

Interpol member countries have highlighted these online scams as among the most critical cyber threats facing Africa in 2024, pointing to their rising frequency and severe impacts. This is confirmed by additional sources, including data from Interpol private partners.

The surge in online scams is closely linked to Africa’s accelerating digital transformation. Criminals capitalize on the growing online activity, in particular social media usage, digital commerce and mobile banking, to perpetrate fraud.

Data from Interpol African member countries indicate that victims of such crimes are diverse, as they affect individuals across all age groups, genders, and professional backgrounds.

While the survey data from member countries highlight that some groups are more vulnerable, it is also clear that all demographics are at risk.