South Africa climbed to fifth place for cybercrime density in 2022, up from sixth in 2021, according to a recent study by cybersecurity company Surfshark. Last year, 56 out of 1 million internet users in South Africa fell victim to cybercrime, which translated to 2,000 people. This increase in cybercrime highlights the urgent need for more robust cybersecurity measures in the country.
Phishing remains the most common cybercrime worldwide in 2022, with 300,000 victims, while investment fraud was the most financially devastating, costing the world $3.3 billion in losses. In South Africa, the most common types of cybercrimes are online payment fraud, identity theft, and hacking.
The UK tops the list for cybercrime density, with 4,371 victims per 1 million internet users, followed by the US, Canada, Australia, and finally, South Africa. Cybercrime has been a growing threat worldwide, with losses caused by cybercrime on an upward trend since 2001. In 2022 alone, cybercriminals stole $10.3 billion, compared to $6.9 billion in 2021 and $4.2 billion in 2020.
“Because of how lucrative cybercrime is, there’s no reason to think cybercriminals will stop striking anytime soon. That’s why it’s more important than ever to be vigilant and build up your cybersecurity defenses, which goes for businesses and individuals alike”, said Gabriele Racaityte-Krasauske, a Surfshark spokesperson.
To help users assess their risk, Surfshark developed the Data Vulnerability Thermometer, an online tool that combines open-source FBI information and research algorithms. The tool gives users their risk score, possible specific cybercrimes, and prevention tactics based on selected data points. The Data Vulnerability Thermometer also contains descriptions, typology, tips, and statistics of 20 different internet crime offenses aimed at individual users. This encyclopedia also has extensive coverage of statistics on trends and patterns in the field of cybercrimes.
As cybercrime continues to grow and impact individuals and businesses worldwide, it is crucial to prioritise cybersecurity measures and stay vigilant to protect against potential threats.
