By Mabel Adorkor Annang
A recent analysis by Positive Technologies has revealed a worrying increase in cyberattacks on government institutions, with regions such as Asia and Africa being prime targets. From 2022 through mid-2024, cybercriminal activity has surged, particularly in Asia, where 33% of global attacks were reported. Africa and North America each accounted for 12% of the attacks.
“The more digitally advanced a government is, the more it depends on technology,” says Anna Vyatkina, Information Security Analyst at Positive Technologies. “The colossal volume of confidential data stored in government IT systems, along with the critical significance of uninterrupted operations of government agencies, make this sector an attractive target for all kinds of threat actors.”
Government agencies in Asia, particularly those undergoing digital transformation, are particularly vulnerable due to their technological advancements and potential cybersecurity gaps. These institutions are often targeted for data breaches (62% of cases), intellectual property theft, and disruptions to critical operations.
While ransomware remains a common threat, its effectiveness in the public sector is declining as governments often refuse to pay ransoms.
“Instead, attackers focus on disrupting government systems and stealing sensitive data,” according to the report.
The report reveals the increasing use of malware (68% of incidents) and social engineering tactics (47%) to infiltrate government networks. Computers, servers, and network equipment are primary targets, and the human factor plays a significant role in successful attacks.
Positive Technologies emphasised the importance of a result-driven cybersecurity approach to protect government institutions from these threats. “This approach involves identifying critical assets, hardening IT infrastructure, training employees, and implementing incident response plans,” says Vyatkina.
By prioritising cybersecurity, governments can mitigate the risks associated with cyberattacks and ensure the protection of their citizens and critical services.