At its annual Cyber Security Weekend for the Middle East, Turkiye, and Africa (META) region, Kaspersky’s Global Research and Analysis Team unveiled alarming trends in digital threats, particularly the growing reach of ransomware and targeted attacks by advanced threat actors.
In the first quarter of 2025, Turkiye and Kenya recorded the highest number of users impacted by online threats, while Saudi Arabia and Pakistan experienced the lowest incidence in the META region. Kaspersky experts revealed they are tracking 25 active advanced persistent threat (APT) groups in the region, including SideWinder and MuddyWater, which are known for their stealth and technical sophistication.
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The company highlighted that ransomware remains among the most dangerous cyber risks, with attackers increasingly targeting valuable data rather than launching widespread campaigns. In the Middle East, ransomware attacks rose more sharply than in Africa and Turkiye, largely due to accelerated digital transformation and uneven cyber defense systems.
Emerging ransomware groups like FunkSec are now using AI tools to enhance attacks, with tactics such as double extortion and Ransomware-as-a-Service models. These developments make it easier for less experienced hackers to create convincing attacks using LLMs sold on the dark web.
Experts predict ransomware will continue to evolve by exploiting overlooked vulnerabilities, including IoT devices and outdated workplace systems. Kaspersky urged organizations to adopt layered security strategies, stay informed about attacker techniques, and make use of tools like its Anti-Ransomware Tool for Business and the Kaspersky Next product line for real-time protection and incident response.
