(Ecofin Agency) - As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries in an increasingly digital world, its impact on cybersecurity—a key pillar of the fourth industrial revolution—is raising growing concerns. In its "Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025" report released in January, the World Economic Forum (WEF) revealed that nearly 47% of businesses worldwide see the rise of AI-powered cybercrime as their top concern.

This fear is well-founded, according to Amin Hasbini, head of research for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa at cybersecurity firm Kaspersky. "Cybercriminals are exploiting open-source AI models like LLaMA or Quant to develop their own malicious generative AI tools, such as Evil GPT or Wolf GPT. These technologies enable them to automate complex tasks, from mass-producing malware to personalizing phishing attacks," he explained.

Meanwhile, projections from Google and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) suggest that Africa’s digital economy could be worth $712 billion by 2050. This growth, driven by sectors like telecommunications, banking, commerce, and transportation, faces a major threat: the continent's lack of preparedness for cybersecurity challenges. Without urgent action, the economic potential highlighted by Google and the IFC could be severely undermined.

But while AI gives cybercriminals more power, it also offers African governments and businesses a chance to strengthen their cyber defenses. AI-driven cybersecurity solutions are already helping organizations worldwide protect their data, applications, and cloud infrastructures.

A report from the Capgemini Research Institute, published in November 2024, found that many organizations are using AI to analyze massive datasets, detect attack patterns, and anticipate security breaches.

More than 60% of the respondent businesses that have integrated AI into their cybersecurity strategies reported at least a 5% improvement in threat detection speed. Moreover, nearly 40% said AI reduced their response time to cyber threats by at least 5%.

However, in Africa—where cybersecurity investments remain low—the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) warns that a shift in mindset is urgently needed.

Interpol is urging African nations to establish or strengthen harmonized national frameworks to combat cybercrime effectively. The organization also emphasizes the need to invest in law enforcement’s cyber capabilities through skills development, process improvements, and the adoption of advanced technologies.

At the same time, supporting private sector cybersecurity initiatives, promoting digital education, and raising public awareness of cyber risks are critical. Greater cooperation between African countries is also essential to counter the global cybercrime threat.

In Africa, AI presents both a challenge and an opportunity for cybersecurity. If the continent can bridge its gaps in infrastructure, training, and regulation, it could secure its place in the global digital economy while minimizing cyber risks.