AI drives rise in African cybercrime, INTERPOL report finds
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the landscape of cybercrime in Africa, according to the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL). The African Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2026 reveals that more than half of reported cybercrimes on the continent now involve AI. The report highlights how cybercriminals use AI to create sophisticated scams, synthetic identities, and deepfake media. Neal Jetton, Director of INTERPOL’s Cybercrime Directorate, warns that AI is automating every stage of cyberattacks.
What we know
- The African Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2026 states that 55% of reported cybercrimes in Africa are AI-enabled.
- Financial losses from cybercrime across the continent have more than doubled since 2024, rising from $192m to $484m.
- Online scams remained the most commonly reported cybercrime in 2025, with criminals exploiting mobile money, social media, and AI.
- 17 African countries enacted or amended cybercrime legislation in 2025, and several regional initiatives have improved cybersecurity preparedness.
- Four coordinated INTERPOL operations led to over 1,500 arrests, the seizure of hundreds of devices, and the recovery of more than $100m in criminal proceeds.
