Cybercrime can be defined as “criminal activities carried out by means of computers or the Internet.” With the growing use of smartphones, mobile devices have become an integral part of this definition, significantly expanding the scope of potential cyber threats.
Recent Incidents of Mobile Cybercrime
In a notable case, twelve people were recently arrested in Pretoria for their involvement in an international cybercrime syndicate. Authorities reported that the suspects—11 Nigerians and one South African woman—were linked to a global scam network. These individuals enriched themselves through illegally obtained funds. Authorities emphasised their continued collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), Interpol, and other government agencies to combat such crimes. Additionally, they aim to increase public awareness to help prevent these scams.
Despite these efforts, many South Africans continue to fall victim to mobile cybercrime daily. Scammers persistently target individuals, employing tactics such as sending SMS messages claiming lottery winnings or fabricated payouts from organisations like LOTTO. These scams often involve convincing victims to deposit money into fraudulent accounts under the guise of releasing their supposed winnings. As the adage goes: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Emerging Threats
Ghareeb Saad, a senior security researcher at Kaspersky Lab, notes that: “While mobile and financial malware, advanced persistent threats, and web threats are becoming more popular among cybercriminals, removable devices and local networks remain prime sources of IT risks for users in Africa.” These evolving threats highlight the need for vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard mobile devices and sensitive data.
Alarming Statistics
According to recent data from cybersecurity reports in 2024, 48% of mobile users worldwide have experienced mobile cybercrime. Lost or stolen devices remain the biggest risk, but risky user behaviours further exacerbate vulnerabilities. Alarmingly, over 60% of mobile users in South Africa fail to implement basic security measures to protect sensitive information, including online banking credentials. Many South Africans continue to store sensitive information on their mobile devices without adequate safeguards, increasing their exposure to cybercrime.
Staying Ahead of Scammers
To mitigate the risks of mobile cybercrime, consider the following steps:
- Update Apps Regularly: Ensure your mobile banking and payment apps are updated to the latest versions. Updates often include critical security enhancements that protect against new threats.
- Use Comprehensive Security Solutions: Invest in reliable mobile security software to protect against malware and other cyber threats.
- Avoid Suspicious Links and Messages: Be cautious when clicking on links or responding to messages from unknown sources. Scammers often use phishing tactics to steal sensitive information.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of protection to your accounts by enabling 2FA wherever possible.
- Secure Your Device: Use strong passwords or biometric authentication, and activate remote wipe features in case your device is lost or stolen.
Raising Awareness
As South Africans, we must prioritise cybersecurity awareness and take proactive steps to protect our data and online activities. Cybercriminals are constantly refining their tactics, making it essential to remain vigilant and informed. By adopting strong security practices, individuals can stay one step ahead of scammers and safeguard their personal and financial information.