Africa: Microsoft - AI-Powered Cyberattacks Surge in Africa

AllAfricaCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete October 24, 2025 at 04:56 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

According to Microsoft's 2025 Digital Defense Report, Africa is experiencing a surge in AI-powered cyberattacks, with North African countries and South Africa as key targets for Business Email Compromise (BEC) infrastructure and money mule operations. Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to enhance phishing schemes and impersonate trusted individuals, leading to a significant rise in data theft incidents across the continent. The cost of cybercrime in Africa has risen from $192 million to $484 million, with victims increasing from 35,000 to 87,000. AI-powered phishing campaigns have achieved a 54% click rate and can increase profitability up to 50-fold compared to traditional methods. Microsoft warns that familiar digital platforms are being weaponized against African businesses.

Key Topics & Entities

South Africa 40% North Africa 50% Kerissa Varma 60% Africa ×570% Microsoft ×480%

Keywords

cyberattacks 100% artificial intelligence 90% africa 80% phishing schemes 70% digital impersonation 60% cybercrime cost 50% business email compromise (bec) 50% credential theft 40% secure future initiative 40% ai-powered phishing 40%