Cybersecurity: What to Watch and How to Stay Safe

This tag collects news, alerts and plain-language advice about cybersecurity across Africa and beyond. Expect stories on data breaches, telecom and banking risks, government policy, and fast tips you can use today — no tech degree needed. I’ll point out what matters, why it affects you, and the steps you can take right now.

What you'll find here

Short, clear reports about incidents that affect people and businesses in Africa: leaked databases, mobile-money scams, attacks on hospitals or utilities, and new regulations from governments. You’ll also see explainers that break down complex topics like ransomware, phishing, and supply chain attacks into simple actions. If big companies or local institutions are hit, we cover it and tell you what to do.

Practical steps to protect yourself

Passwords first: use long, unique passwords for each account. A simple trick is a short passphrase made of three unrelated words and a number. Use a trusted password manager to keep them safe instead of reusing the same one everywhere.

Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever you can. The extra step — a code from an app or SMS — blocks many account takeovers. Prefer authenticator apps or hardware keys over SMS when available.

Watch out for phishing. Don’t click links from unknown texts, emails, or WhatsApp messages asking for login details or money. Scammers often mimic banks, delivery firms, or government agencies. When in doubt, open the official app or call the company using a number from their website.

Keep devices and apps updated. Those updates often patch security holes attackers use. If an update pops up, install it when you can — especially for your phone and browser.

Back up your important files to an external drive or a trusted cloud. If ransomware hits, a recent backup means you won’t be forced to pay to recover your data.

Use secure Wi‑Fi. Avoid banking or sending sensitive data over public Wi‑Fi. If you must, use a reliable VPN to encrypt your connection. For small businesses, ask your IT provider about network segmentation and firewalls to limit damage from an attack.

Monitor financial accounts and credit reports regularly. Small, odd charges or strange login alerts can be early signs of fraud. Report suspicious activity quickly to your bank and change passwords.

Finally, teach others. Share simple tips with family and staff. One cautious message can stop a costly scam.

Follow this tag to get fast updates and practical advice. When a story breaks, we’ll explain what happened, who’s affected, and the exact steps you should take next. If you want deeper guides or tool recommendations, check the linked explainers in each post — they’re written for real people, not tech manuals.