| The African continent is vulnerable to a plethora of Internet related crime including terrorism, drugs and financial fraud. Cybercrime in Africa is gaining traction and becoming a growing problem for African countries and the international community alike. Cyber threat in Africa has added a new set of challenges for the African continent and until recently cyber threat has never been acknowledged in several parts of Africa. This paper explains how other pressing issues as economic hardship have distracted African governments from addressing cybercrime as a result criminal entities are taking advantage using the Internet as a platform to commit crime. The research also discusses how increased Internet penetration on the continent, proliferation of technology, lack of awareness, lack of legal framework and other factors have contributed to cybercrime on the African continent. The research paper concludes by elaborating on how online presence, technological advancement, system vulnerabilities and lack of technical knowhow in Africa exposes an already fragile economy to undue risks and challenges which require careful management otherwise could result in a major dent in their economies. These same vulnerabilities create a haven for criminals to operate from, to launch attacks within Africa and at developed and wealthier nations. This paper also offers recommendation on ways to reduce cybercrime by collaborating with local and foreign entities and implement measures that have already adopted by developed countries such as the United States who have extensive experience in this area. |
