This archive report was first published on 4 May 2021.
As Kenya continues to embrace the digital economy, protecting the integrity of electronic and digital systems has become a top priority. The country is experiencing a surge in cyber threats, with over 50% increase in reported incidents in the fourth quarter of 2020, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya's sector statistics report.
Speaking at a virtual forum to launch the 2021 Annual Kaa Chonjo! Card, Mobile and Online Safety Awareness Campaign, Communications Authority of Kenya acting Director General Mrs. Mercy Wanjau noted that the increased incidences of cyber threats necessitate continued awareness on cyber hygiene across sectors.
‘I am convinced that the increased cyber threat trend needs continued awareness on cyber hygiene across sectors if Kenya is to safeguard the gains made so far in ICT. In addition, there is need for cross sector collaboration on cyber awareness and information sharing,’’ she added.
The campaign, which will run for a month, aims to prioritize digital financial safety and highlight emergent security issues in light of the sustained shift to digital financial service solutions necessitated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Kenya Bankers Association Chief Executive Officer Dr. Habil Olaka noted that there has been a significant shift in bank customers’ preferences for digital services, with 43% of customers opting for digital services in 2020, according to the Association’s Customer Satisfaction Survey.
“While the banking industry’s digital resilience has continued to promote continuity in the financial services sector, rising cases of fraud need to be addressed further through consumer education’’, he said.
