South Africa Faces Unprecedented Cybersecurity Threats with 32 Million Malware Attacks in 2024

South Africa is experiencing a surge in cyber threats, with over 32 million malware attacks recorded in 2024, according to a new study by cybersecurity firm NordVPN. This places the country at the top of Africa’s cybersecurity threat list, with Kenya and Ghana trailing behind at 23 million and 12 million incidents, respectively.

Fake Big Tech Websites: A Growing Threat

Cybercriminals are increasingly using fake websites impersonating major technology brands to lure unsuspecting users into providing personal and financial information. The study highlights Google, Facebook, and Microsoft as the three most impersonated brands for phishing scams and credential theft.

“In fact, the majority of all phishing attacks use around 300 brand names for deception,” said Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN. “The brands themselves are not at fault – such fakes hurt their reputation as well, forcing companies to actively hunt them down.”

NordVPN’s research identified nearly 85,000 fake URLs mimicking Google services in 2024, while Facebook and Microsoft saw over 6,000 and 5,000 fraudulent sites, respectively. Other commonly faked brands included AT&T, Yahoo!, and Netflix, each with around 4,000 fake URLs.

Malware and Privacy Risks on Video Hosting and Entertainment Sites

One of the biggest sources of malware infections in 2024 has been free video hosting websites, including anime streaming platforms and pirated content sites. NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ blocked over 1.5 billion malware attempts on these sites alone.

Other high-risk domains include:

• Entertainment websites – Nearly 1 billion malware attacks recorded.
• Sports websites – 124 million malware incidents.
• Adult content platforms – 109 million malware cases.
• File sharing and storage services – 74 million malware attempts.

“The above-mentioned categories, especially free video hosting sites, contain not only malware but also intrusive ads and web trackers,” Warmenhoven explained. “Threat Protection Pro™ blocked almost 7 billion ads and more than 119 billion trackers on video hosting sites alone in 2024.”

How Trackers and Intrusive Ads Compromise User Privacy

Web trackers collect user data for advertising and analytics but can also be exploited by cybercriminals if leaked. Trackers often take the form of cookies, browser scripts, or tracking pixels embedded in websites.

Businesses use this data for targeted advertising, but if a data breach occurs, it can fall into the wrong hands. Many companies also share or sell tracking data to third parties without user consent.

Meanwhile, intrusive ads—such as pop-ups, auto-playing videos, and page hijacks—not only disrupt user experience but can also redirect users to malicious sites or install malware.

How to Protect Yourself from Cyber Threats

Cybersecurity experts recommend taking proactive steps to safeguard personal data and devices from malware, phishing attacks, and intrusive tracking. Here are some key precautions:

• Avoid suspicious websites – Free video hosting, file-sharing, and adult content sites are high-risk domains.
• Be cautious with emails and messages – Phishing scams often pose as promotions, gifts, or urgent security updates.
• Check website URLs carefully – Cybercriminals use slight misspellings (e.g., “Arnazon” instead of “Amazon”) to trick users.
• Verify downloads – Only download software from official sources and use security tools to scan files.
• Limit data exposure – Reduce the amount of personal information shared online, especially on social media.
• Keep software updated – Outdated operating systems and apps can be exploited by hackers.

With cyber threats on the rise, South African internet users need to be more vigilant than ever. The record 32 million malware incidents in 2024 highlight the urgent need for increased awareness and stronger cybersecurity measures. By staying informed and using protective tools, individuals and businesses can better defend against digital threats and ensure safer online experiences.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com

South Africa’s AI Revolution: Are We Secure in the Age of Cyber Threats?