As the digital age progresses, internet scam have become a significant concern for individuals, businesses, and governments worldwide.

While providing numerous opportunities for communication and commerce, the internet has also opened the door for fraudulent activities that exploit unsuspecting victims.

The prevalence of online scams has led to financial losses, psychological distress, and a general erosion of trust in digital transactions.

In this landscape, certain countries stand out for their vulnerability to internet scams due to various socio-economic and technological factors.

According to Sanction Scanner, these top 10 countries have the highest cases of internet fraud, in no particular order.

India

India has witnessed an alarming rise in internet scams, particularly in the realms of online shopping, tech support fraud, and lottery scams.

With over 600 million internet users, the country has become a fertile ground for cybercriminals.

India faces a severe cybercrime challenge, recording $7.93 million USD. in losses across 4,850 cases in 2023, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). Digital financial frauds alone amounted to $14.86 million USD over the past three years.

The government has initiated several awareness campaigns, but the rapid growth of digital infrastructure continues to challenge law enforcement agencies to keep up with the evolving tactics of scammers.

Brazil

Brazil’s financial ecosystem has been significantly impacted by internet scams, especially banking trojan attacks that infiltrate user accounts and syphon off funds. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in online banking systems, leading to millions of dollars in losses annually.

Brazil’s fintech boom has attracted cybercriminals. In 2023, 1.8 million banking trojan infections were recorded, as reported by Kaspersky Lab.

The introduction of the Pix payment system has revolutionised financial transactions but exposed users to malware attacks, with eight of the top 13 trojans globally originating from Brazil.

As the digital banking sector expands, Brazilian authorities are working to implement stronger cybersecurity measures, but the cat-and-mouse game with scammers remains a constant struggle.

Pakistan

The landscape of internet fraud in Pakistan has been marked by a surge in suspicious transaction reports, indicating a growing problem with financial crimes, including money laundering.

Pakistan’s Financial Monitoring Unit (FMU) reported 32,072 suspicious transaction reports (STRs) in 2023.

Fraudulent activities involve money laundering and terrorist financing schemes, reflecting rising threats in both the financial and criminal sectors.

Despite government efforts to regulate and monitor online transactions, the lack of awareness among the populace often leads to individuals falling victim to these schemes.

This has created a pressing need for enhanced cybersecurity education and more robust regulatory frameworks.

South Africa

In South Africa, internet scams have manifested primarily through identity theft and online auction fraud.

The rise of social media platforms has provided scammers with new avenues to target victims.

Ranked 7th on the Global Criminality Index (2023), South Africa faces escalating identity theft and credit card fraud. Fraudulent loan applications and phishing attacks are widespread, exacerbated by vulnerabilities in online platforms and digital banking systems.

South African authorities have ramped up efforts to combat cyber fraud through public awareness campaigns and stricter regulations, yet the prevalence of scams continues to challenge consumers and businesses alike.

Morocco

Morocco faces a troubling rise in online scams, particularly those involving identity theft and fraud through social networks.

Many Moroccans lack awareness of the tactics employed by fraudsters, leading to increased victimisation.

Fraudulent activities are growing, with the Unit for the Processing of Financial Information (UTRF) monitoring suspicious transactions linked to money laundering and embezzlement.

The government is beginning to address these issues, but as the digital economy grows, so too does the need for comprehensive cybersecurity education and preventive measures.

Romania

Romania has emerged as a significant player in the realm of internet scams, characterised by complex networks of financial fraud, money laundering, and identity theft. While the country has made strides in improving its cybersecurity infrastructure, the sophistication of scams has outpaced regulatory efforts.

Romania’s vulnerability to business email compromise (BEC) scams and money laundering is significant. Europol reports highlight cases involving human trafficking and financial fraud.

Ongoing initiatives to combat these challenges are vital for restoring trust in Romania’s digital environment.

Nigeria

Known for its notorious “419” scams, Nigeria continues to battle a reputation fraught with issues related to cyber fraud.

Scammers often target individuals both locally and internationally, employing tactics that promise lucrative returns in exchange for upfront fees.

The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit struggles with enforcement due to institutional corruption. Educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness among citizens about online scams are critical to changing perceptions and reducing victimisation.

Venezuela

The dire economic situation in Venezuela has led to a surge in internet scams, including credit card fraud and various government-related schemes.

As citizens grapple with financial instability, scammers exploit their vulnerabilities, preying on desperate individuals seeking financial relief.

With frequent cases of identity theft, credit card fraud, and government-related corruption, narcotics trafficking exacerbates financial crimes, as the Unidad Nacional de Inteligencia Financiera (UNIF) works to monitor suspicious activities.

The long-awaited Konga Yakata—Nigeria’s biggest annual sales event—is set to begin this Friday, November 1, 2024, and will run through the entire month of November, ending on Saturday, November 30.

As excitement builds among shoppers, this year’s edition promises to deliver even more incredible savings, with up to 90% discounts on a wide array of premium products.

From tech enthusiasts to fashion lovers, families, and collectors of fine wines and spirits, there’s something for everyone in this year’s Konga Yakata sale.

As the authorized retail outlet for numerous leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Konga brings a distinct pricing advantage to shoppers during this event.

Customers can enjoy unbeatable discounts on a wide range of products, including tech gadgets, electronics, home and kitchen appliances, Starlink kits, and more from top brands like L’Oreal, Apple, Samsung, Philips, Nokia, Hisense, Oppo, Infinix, Lenovo, and HP.

Despite the current economic challenges in Nigeria, Konga Yakata has emerged as a beacon of hope for savvy shoppers. Contrary to predictions from analysts and market watchers who forecasted a significant decline in consumer spending due to the harsh economic conditions, investigations reveal that Nigerians are trusting Konga for their shopping needs.

Shoppers are adopting a smarter approach by targeting high-value deals and maximizing the incredible discounts available during Konga Yakata.

For many, the Konga Yakata sale has become the ultimate way to shop while saving money. Rather than cutting back on spending, shoppers have found innovative ways to navigate the economic downturn by leveraging Konga’s impressive discounts and exclusive Black Friday offers.

Shoppers can look forward to an array of exciting shopping experiences including Flash Sales up to 99% OFF, Cyber Monday, Treasure Hunt, Live Auction, Mega Discount Day, Happy Hour, Jumbo Party, Battle Of The Brands, 25k Shop, Weekend Shopathon, Fashion Haul, Yakata Mobile Frenzy, Health & Fitness Day, TGIF Bonanza, Week Of Wonder, and brand days for each Konga vertical.

Additionally, Konga offers a valuable opportunity for corporate organizations, entrepreneurs, and business-focused individuals through Konga Corporate and Konga Bulk.

By being the trusted retail partner for OEMs, Konga enables aspiring entrepreneurs to purchase products in bulk, empowering them to resell and grow their businesses.

According to Dave Omoregie, Chief Operating Officer Konga Group, the idea behind Konga Yakata is to provide Nigerians with an opportunity to purchase high-quality items at affordable prices, ensuring that no one has to compromise on their shopping needs during these trying times.

“We understand the economic challenges our shoppers face, which is why we are committed to offering exceptional value through Konga Yakata.

“This year, we’ve gone the extra mile to include a range of incentives that will ensure shoppers find something for everyone—whether it’s electronics, fashion, or even everyday essentials,” the COO added.

Konga Yakata’s impressive lineup of offers is designed to accommodate all types of shoppers, from those on a budget to those looking to splurge on premium items.

The Jumbo Party provides a curated selection of items at unbeatable prices, while the 25k Shop are perfect for those looking to score fantastic deals without breaking the bank.

For families and individuals looking for a weekend shopping spree, the Weekend Shopathon offers even more opportunities to save on must-have products.

The enthusiasm surrounding Konga Yakata 2024 is a testament to the resilience of Nigerian consumers.

They are also adapting their shopping strategies to focus on value-adding deals.

As November 1 approaches, the anticipation continues to build.

Shoppers are advised to mark their calendars and prepare their wishlists for what promises to be the biggest Konga Yakata yet.

For more information about Konga Yakata 2024 and to stay updated on the latest deals, visit www.konga.com or follow Konga on social media.

As part of efforts towards the transformative journey of strengthening National Security with total commitment to robust cybersecurity measures and digital trust, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE has urged the public and private sectors to invest more in the training of cybersecurity professionals, citing that the benefits of securing organisations and processes, far outweighs the cyber-attacks.

The DG made this plea as a Guest Speaker while presenting a paper titled “Alternative to Cybercrime” at the National Cybercrimes Summit 2024, organised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa.

The summit, with the theme; Alternate to Cybercrime: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development,” is a platform that brought together captains of industries, heads of security agencies, traditional and religious leaders to share ideas, expertise and experiences with a focus on enhancing digital skills as strategy to combat cybercrime.

Inuwa emphasised the urgent need to address the growing menace of cybercrime in Nigeria, while proposing alternative paths for Nigeria’s youth and strategies to fortify national cyber resilience.

He detailed the complexities of cybercrime, noting that it is no longer restricted to laptops and desktops but extends to mobile devices, smart TVs, cars, and more, as everything becomes interconnected through technology.

Inuwa outlined five major categories of cybercrime identified by research which are; technical products or services attacks, attacks and extortion, data or identity theft, Scam and Cashing Out or Money Laundering and stated that the financial sector remains the most vulnerable in Africa, with over 3,300 cyber-attacks reported weekly.

While stressing that cybercrime is a global issue that affects every facet of the digital economy, particularly in Nigeria, he said “We are confronted with an urgent reality, Nigeria, a nation with a rich culture, talent and limitless potential is unfortunately grappling with the global menace of cybercrime but today, we are going to look at alternatives to cybercrime.”

Enumerating the underlying factors that trigger cybercrimes such as unemployment, financial incentives and lack of awareness of the legal and moral implications, Inuwa called for a more holistic approach to combating cybercrime, not only through law enforcement but also by offering viable alternatives to those tempted by illegal online activities.

“We need to look at alternatives to cybercrime and the government must focus on digital literacy, skills development, and job creation to steer young Nigerians away from cybercriminality,” he averred.

Inuwa reiterated the importance of providing positive alternatives for Nigerian youth and stressed the potential of the digital economy to create millions of jobs and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP.

The highlight of the event witnessed the first lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, unveiling and launching the EFCC Rapid Response Centre, a response desk against cybercrime that can be accessed at any time of the day.

Other dignitaries present at the event were the Chairman of the Nigeria Governor’s Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, the Ooni of Ile Ife who was represented by the Alara of Ilara, Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, the President, Christian Association of Nigeria, Dr Daniel Okoh and many others.