Zimpapers Logo

Tom Muleya Fraud Insight

Technological development has vastly changed every facet of human life globally, and has become an integral component of all human activities. In business, public life and private life, almost everyone is “clicking” on some electronic gadget to interact with cyber space. In the past, in case of Zimbabwe, use of Smartphones was a preserve of the few but now, the majority from children to adults is in possession of even latest technologies. 

This means that as more and more Zimbabweans go on cyber space, an exponential increase in irresponsible behaviour among corporates and the general public leading to many and various cyber incidences is anticipated. 

In support of the November 2021 National Cyber Security Awareness Campaign, running under the theme: “Think before you click”, Fraud Insight today looks at cyber threat in Zimbabwe. 

As we look at cyber threats, the “Think before You Click” concept should be vivid in our minds. I suppose if people understand the thrust of the czampaign which is meant amongst others; to promote online security and safety, to cultivate a cybersecurity culture amongst internet stakeholders, and to unlock new opportunities for cyber security collaboration and information sharing, and then act responsibly, Zimbabwe will have a “safe cyber space with minimum cyber incidences”.

Phishing scams are some of the cyber security threats that have been identified in Zimbabwe. According to the Top 10 Source African Countries for phishing Hosts-2016, Zimbabwe ranks number nine, with a 1 percent within Africa, with a total incident count of 51.  

Phishing is a type of fraud where fraudulent e-mails are sent that resemble emails sent from reputable sources; however the intention of the emails is to steal sensitive data, such as credit card or login information.

Phishing can also be defined as a fraudulent attempt to elicit sensitive information from a victim in order to perform some type of action (gain access to network or accounts, gain access to data, get the victim to perform an action such as a wire transfer.

In order to prevent phishing scams, the following are some of the recommended solutions;

• The implementation of cyber security awareness training for every employee across board. 

• The use of email encryption and email signing certificates.

• Emphasise the importance of phishing reporting.

• The use of reliable email and spam filters.

•  Making provision of two factor authentications.

• The running of random phishing simulations.

• The use of HTTPS on your website to create security, encrypted connections.

The national campaign on cyber security awareness is a call for all Zimbabweans to think and act responsibly when transacting on the internet in order to minimise cyber-crime. Remember, just one negligent click may cost you, the corporate and the nation huge losses. Take responsibility!

Get empowered by Fraud insight and be part of a solution to cybercrime. Watch out for the next issue.

For your feedback, WhatsApp line:0772 764 043, or e-mail:[email protected]. Tom Muleya is a Detective Assistant Inspector working under the Criminal Investigations Department. Harare