Cyber threats are on the rise in Africa. The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) in May 2024 that the continent is susceptible to various forms of cyberattacks, including phishing, digital extortion, and other online scams. The organization noted that "business email compromise is on the rise across the continent and poses a significant threat to the financial sector".
The report adds that with 90 per cent of African businesses lacking necessary cybersecurity protocols, the continent’s GDP has dropped by more than 10 per cent. But one activist is fighting back.
Twenty-four-year-old Favour Chioma Ugwoke, a Security Operation Center Analyst and Penetration Tester, decided to find ways to protect individuals and organizations from cybercrime after her mother fell victim to a phishing scam.Ěý
"I was devastated when it happened to my mother. I felt helpless, but it lit a fire in me," she says in an interview. Cybersecurity attacks like the one her mother faced are increasingly common.
According to a by the Global Cybersecurity Index, a significant percentage of global internet users have encountered cyber threats such as phishing, online scams, and identity theft. In Africa, the rising digital adoption has made individuals vulnerable, with recording a significant number of internet users reporting cybercrime incidents.
"What began as a way to protect my mother turned into a passion to protect others," Favour says. Unfortunately, her mother’s attackers were never identified—a common outcome due to cybercriminals' use of advanced anonymization tools and the cross-border nature of their operations.
Still, this setback served as a powerful catalyst for Favour’s advocacy. Relying on her experience, she explains that young adults (18-34) are most frequently victims of phishing and online fraud due to their extensive use of digital platforms while older adults (55+) like her mother are more likely to be targeted by scams such as impersonation and identity theft, often due to limited digital literacy.
Positive Impact
Favour’s work is making a significant difference. She has trained over 1,000 individuals in cybersecurity and digital safety. According to her, many of her trainees have transitioned into IT roles, and her efforts have contributed to a significant decrease in successful phishing attacks among beneficiaries.Ěý
She organises individual and group training sessions, partnering with a leading cybersecurity organisation to raise awareness and equip individuals with the knowledge to protect themselves. Her work highlights the connection between Africa’s increasing internet penetration and the growing cyber threat landscape.
"I protect individuals and organizations from cyberattacks by monitoring their security systems and ensuring that data stays safe and accessible," she says.
"The rapid proliferation of digital platforms, driven by affordable smartphones and expanded internet access, has created new opportunities for cybercriminals," Favour notes. "While technology offers unprecedented opportunities, it also demands greater vigilance to prevent its misuse."
She adds that, "The future of Africa lies in our ability to embrace technology and empower its people to lead innovation."
Challenges
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Favour has faced her share of challenges, including meeting people who believe women needn’t be in the field. "I have never let that hold me back,” she insists. “I believe diversity is key to solving complex cybersecurity problems."ĚýĚý
Continuous learning in cybersecurity is also crucial. "Staying updated in cybersecurity is a challenge because the landscape changes so quickly. I make it a point to follow industry news and trends through various cybersecurity blogs, forums, webinars, and news sites," Favour explains.
Looking Ahead
She is optimistic about Africa’s potential to become a leader in cybersecurity innovation. "I see a future where Africa is at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation. We have the talent and the drive to make it happen."
To young people interested in cybersecurity, she advises: "Don't be afraid to start small. Learn the basics, build your skills, and never stop learning. Celebrate your small wins, and don't be too hard on yourself when you encounter setbacks."
"Each project taught me something new," she concludes, highlighting her unwavering dedication to building a safer, more innovative digital future for Africans.
