Rise of AI-Driven Cyberattacks in Africa

• •Deepfake impersonation incidents in South Africa surged by 269% year-on-year.
• •Overall identity fraud in South Africa decreased by 31% due to improved regulations.
• •The digital economy in Africa facilitated over $1.1 trillion in transactions in 2025.

Cyberattacks in Africa are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with a notable shift towards fewer but more serious incidents, particularly involving deepfake impersonations. Sumsub's research indicates a 31% year-on-year drop in overall identity fraud in South Africa, attributed to stronger regulations and advanced verification systems. However, deepfake incidents surged by 269% year-on-year, indicating a transition from low-effort scams to high-skill attacks. The growth of the digital economy in Africa, which recorded over $1.1 trillion in digital transactions in 2025, has made critical sectors like financial services and healthcare more attractive targets for cybercriminals. Experts warn that traditional security systems are struggling to keep pace with these advanced threats. The report highlights the need for organizations to enhance their security measures to combat the evolving landscape of cybercrime.