Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
A new Vodacom Business Cybersecurity Report reveals that 80% of South African businesses have faced cyberattacks in the past year, yet only 32% prioritize cybersecurity training for employees. The findings, unveiled at Vodacom World in Midrand on November 27, underscore the escalating cybersecurity challenges as businesses increasingly embrace digital transformation.
The report, commissioned in partnership with Omdia, provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest cyber threats and strategies to bolster digital resilience. With annual financial losses from cyberattacks reaching R2.2 billion, as reported by the South African Banking Risk Information Centre and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, the stakes for businesses are higher than ever.
Speaking at the event, Videsha Proothveerajh, Director of Vodacom Business, highlighted the dual role of technology as both an enabler of growth and a potential vulnerability. “Cloud, IoT technologies, and mobile networks are empowering businesses, but cybersecurity must also be viewed as a critical growth enabler,” she said.
The report identifies ransomware as the most severe threat, with only 36% of South African companies expressing confidence in their ability to prevent such attacks without major disruption. Globally, ransomware ranks among the top three cybersecurity challenges for 41% of organizations, particularly in the public, health, and finance sectors, according to Omdia’s 2024 Cyber Security Decision Maker Survey.
In addition to ransomware, the report emphasizes the growing sophistication of AI-driven cyberattacks and the pressing shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals. These factors place immense pressure on businesses to secure their digital infrastructure. Globally, 42% of organizations, including those in South Africa, rank cybersecurity as their top IT priority.
Proothveerajh urged businesses to act decisively, stating, “The question is not whether an attack will happen, but when. By prioritizing cybersecurity, businesses can protect their reputation, maintain customer trust, and ensure operational continuity. Vodacom Business is committed to equipping organizations with the tools and expertise needed to safeguard their operations.”
The report serves as a call to action for organizations to integrate robust cybersecurity measures into their operational strategies. By doing so, businesses can mitigate risks, from the factory floor to the boardroom, and build resilience in an increasingly digital world.
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