In today’s digital age and space, cyber security plays a critical role in safeguarding individuals, businesses, and governments against cyber threats. Lesotho, a small country fully landlocked in South Africa, based in
Southern Africa region faces a unique set of challenges in the realm of cybersecurity.
As technology continues to advance, the need to address the current challenges and explore future opportunities for cybersecurity in Lesotho becomes increasingly important.
The country witnessed a rise in hacking, phishing, identity theft, and online fraud, resulting in substantial financial losses for individuals businesses and government entities. Compounding the issue is the limited awareness about cyber threats and preventive measures among the general population, making them more vulnerable to cyber crimes.
Phishing attacks, malware, ransomware, social engineering and insider threats pose persistent cyber threats in Lesotho. To address these challenges, the government has been working on establishing a legal
framework through the computer crime and cyber security Act of 2016.
Additionally, capacity building efforts have been undertaken to enhance capabilities of law enforcement agencies and establish specialised units to combat cybercrime in Lesotho. The country has also engaged in international collaboration to address cyber-threats by participating in regional organisations focused on cyber security issues.
However, resource constraints, including funding, infrastructure and skilled cyber security professionals remain a challenge. There is a need for increased education and awareness among individuals, businesses and government entities, along with enhanced collaboration.
Cybercrime and cyber – threats in Lesotho
Lesotho is facing a growing threat of cybercrime and cyber – threats. The country has seen an increase in cyber attacks including phishing, malware and ransomware attacks. The financial sector is particularly vulnerable to cyber attacks with a number of incidents reported in recent years.
From January 2023 up – to – date, Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) reports show that atleast ten cybercriminals have been arrested and taken to court for cybercrime and online financial fraud.
On 07th June 2023, three suspects were arrested for creating fake facebook accounts using His Majesty King Letsie III, Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Bereng Seeiso and Princes Senate Bereng Seeiso to fraudulently rob people.
All the three suspects failed to pay bail of one thousand five hundred Maloti (M1500.00) which is $80.13 each. They are awaiting trial in prison until their case is heard on 12th June 2023.
The health sector has also been targeted with attacks aimed at stealing
personal data and confidential medical records.
The health sector has also been targeted with attacks aimed at stealing
personal data and confidential medical records.
Current challenges:
a) Lack of awareness and education – one of the significant challenges in Lesotho is the limited awareness and understanding of cybersecurity among the general population, businesses and government entities. This lack of awareness makes individuals and organisations to be susceptible to cyber threats.
b) Inadequate cybersecurity infrastructure – Lesotho may face challenges in establishing robust cybersecurity infrastructure due to limited resources, including funding, technology and skilled cybersecurity professionals. Insufficient infrastructure hampers the ability to effectively prevent, detect and respond to cyber threats.
c) Increasing cybercrime – Lesotho has experienced a rise in cybercrime incidents, including hacking, phishing and online fraud. The evolving nature of cyber threats poses a continuous challenge to the country’s cyber security efforts, necessitating the development of proactive defense mechanisms.
d) Skills gap – Like many countries in Africa, Lesotho may face a shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals. The lack of qualified experts to handle cyber security operations, incident response and policy development can hinder the country’s ability to tackle cyber threats effectively.
e) Limited legal framework – While Lesotho has made efforts to establish a legal framework to address cybercrime there is still a need for further refinement and development of comprehensive
cybersecurity laws and regulations to keep pace with evolving cyber threats.
