Cybercrime is a growing threat across Africa, with millions of online accounts compromised in 2025.
Based on recent data, we highlight the nine African countries with the highest number of hacked accounts, shedding light on the continent’s cybersecurity challenges.
Top African Countries with Hacked Accounts
1. South Sudan: 733,250 Accounts
South Sudan leads with over 733,000 hacked accounts, driven by rapid digital growth in mobile banking and communication, coupled with limited cybersecurity infrastructure.
The country’s vulnerability makes it a prime target for cybercriminals exploiting sensitive data.
2. South Africa: 205,915 Accounts
South Africa ranks second, with more than 205,000 accounts compromised. Despite advancements in cybersecurity regulations, weaknesses in digital finance systems and phishing attacks have left businesses and individuals exposed.
3. Nigeria: 119,433 Accounts
Nigeria, with nearly 120,000 hacked accounts, faces significant cybercrime challenges. The banking and e-commerce sectors are frequent targets, underscoring the need for stronger digital protections in Africa’s most populous nation.
4. Namibia: 68,827 Accounts
Namibia reports over 68,000 compromised accounts, largely due to outdated cybersecurity practices. The country’s digital infrastructure struggles to keep pace with growing online activity.
5. Morocco: 47,411 Accounts
Morocco has seen 47,411 accounts breached, with vulnerabilities in data storage systems, such as the National Social Security Fund, exposing millions of records and highlighting gaps in e-governance security.
6. Egypt: 43,865 Accounts
Egypt follows with 43,865 hacked accounts. Despite a relatively strong cybersecurity framework, the country’s large internet user base of over 80 million makes it a frequent target for cyberattacks.
7. Ghana: 34,175 Accounts
Ghana’s 34,175 compromised accounts reflect the impact of phishing and ransomware targeting its telecommunications sector. The country’s digital growth has outpaced its cybersecurity measures.
8. Algeria: 25,411 Accounts
Algeria reports 25,411 hacked accounts, with public institutions and energy networks facing persistent phishing and ransomware threats. Efforts to strengthen national monitoring are ongoing.
9. Kenya: 19,386 Accounts
Kenya rounds out the list with 19,386 accounts breached. The country’s booming tech scene, including mobile banking, has made it a hotspot for cybercrime, despite increased government efforts to combat threats.
Why Cybercrime Is Rising in Africa
Several factors contribute to the high number of hacked accounts across these nations:
- Rapid Digitalization: Countries like South Sudan and Nigeria are expanding mobile banking and e-commerce, but cybersecurity lags behind.
- Weak Infrastructure: Limited investment in digital defenses leaves systems vulnerable to phishing, ransomware, and data breaches.
- Large Internet Populations: Nations like Nigeria and Egypt, with millions of internet users, are prime targets for cybercriminals exploiting weak protections.
Addressing the Cybersecurity Crisis
The surge in hacked accounts highlights the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity across Africa.
Governments are responding with measures like expanded Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), new laws, and public awareness campaigns.
International partnerships, such as Kenya’s agreements with the US, are also boosting efforts to combat cybercrime.
Looking Forward
As Africa’s digital landscape grows, protecting online accounts is critical to maintaining trust and security. Investments in cybersecurity infrastructure, education, and regional cooperation will be key to reducing cybercrime in 2025 and beyond.
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