Cyberattack Incidents In South Africa: A Survey

Cybersecurity attacks and cybercrimes rank among the top ten global risks, as the World Economic Forum reported in 2023. Despite various technical and strategic solutions deployed by the public and private sectors, these attacks continue to rise. This paper explores the increasing frequency of cyberattack incidents and data breaches in South Africa, focusing on their significant impact on the public and private sectors. Based on a 12-month survey of 309 participants from diverse industries, the study identifies malware as the most common attack type. Findings reveal that approximately 88% of respondents experienced at least one security breach in the past year, with many facing multiple incidents. The financial impact is considerable, with costs often exceeding R50 million per incident, highlighting an urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures. By analysing attack patterns and root causes such as phishing and third-party vulnerabilities, this study provides insights for stakeholders to counter cyber threats proactively. The conclusions advocate for enhanced cybersecurity awareness and resilience to effectively mitigate future risks.