AI fuels more than half of cybercrime in Africa as scams surge, Interpol

Artificial intelligence is now powering more than half of reported cybercrime across Africa, according to INTERPOL's African Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2026 released Monday. The report found that 55% of cybercrime cases recorded across the continent involve the use of AI. Based on data from 36 African countries, the assessment says cybercrime has evolved into a highly organised, cross-border industry. Online scams remained the most common form of cybercrime in 2025, with criminals increasingly using artificial intelligence alongside social media platforms and mobile money services to target victims. INTERPOL said cybercrime-related financial losses have risen sharply over the past year, climbing from $192 million in 2024 to $484 million. The report also found that 72% of surveyed countries identified scam centres operating within their borders, with the highest concentration in West and Southern Africa. Deepfake technology and AI-generated content are increasingly being used in digital sextortion and online harassment campaigns. One of INTERPOL's technology partners, TrendAI, detected around 600,000 sextortion cases linked to these tactics. Despite the growing threat, the report points to progress across the continent. In 2025, 17 African countries introduced or updated cybercrime legislation. INTERPOL said joint international operations led to more than 1,500 arrests, the seizure of hundreds of electronic devices and the recovery of over $100 million linked to cybercrime.