Morocco Ranks Third in Africa for Cybercrime Targets, Kaspersky Report Reveals
A Kaspersky report at GITEX Africa 2025 reveals Morocco is the third most targeted African nation by cybercriminals, with a 26% rise in password-stealing malware. The continent faced 131.6 million cyber threats in 2024. Recommendations include using strong passwords and two-factor authentication to enhance cybersecurity amidst evolving threats.
hassan benyoub 
Marrakech, Morocco – A new report from global cybersecurity leader Kaspersky, presented at GITEX Africa Morocco 2025, identifies Morocco as the third most targeted African nation by cybercriminals in 2024, following Kenya and South Africa. The report highlights a 26% surge in password-stealing malware detections and a 1.2% increase in enterprise-targeted threats across the continent.
Rising Cyber Threats in Africa
Kaspersky’s data reveals that Africa faced 131.6 million cyber threats in 2024, with Morocco alone experiencing 12.6 million web-based attack attempts. Kenya led with 20 million, followed by South Africa with 17 million. The report notes a 4% rise in local threats, such as malware spread via USB drives, CDs, or encrypted files, affecting countries like Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia.
“Africa’s rapid digital expansion has opened new opportunities but also exposed the continent to growing cyber threats,” said Maher Yamout, a senior cybersecurity researcher at Kaspersky’s Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT). “Multiple factors are driving this increase, requiring unified action to combat cybercrime.”
Key Cybersecurity Challenges
The report underscores the prevalence of password-stealing malware, which collects sensitive login credentials and other data. Local threats targeting organizations have also risen, particularly those exploiting removable media or complex installers. Enterprises face additional risks from exposed remote desktop services, such as RDP, if not properly secured.
Recommendations for Protection
To counter these threats, Kaspersky advises individuals to:
- Avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources or clicking suspicious links.
- Enable two-factor authentication wherever available.
- Use strong, unique passwords with a reliable password manager.
- Install software updates promptly and ignore requests to disable security systems.
For businesses, Kaspersky recommends securing remote desktop services with strong passwords and avoiding public exposure unless absolutely necessary.
Building a Resilient Digital Ecosystem
Yamout emphasized the need for collaboration, specialized cybersecurity training, and digital literacy programs to strengthen Africa’s defenses. Initiatives like the African Cyber Surge operation and targeted educational efforts could serve as models for creating a secure digital environment.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, Morocco and other African nations are urged to prioritize cybersecurity to protect individuals and organizations from the growing wave of cybercrime.
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