Financial Crime World

Cybercrime Threats Loom Large in Madagascar as Internet Infrastructure Expands

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Madagascar, a country with an early-stage internet infrastructure development, is facing a growing cybercrime threat. Despite its limited internet penetration rate of just 11%, the country’s connectivity is rapidly increasing due to recent improvements in infrastructure.

Rise of Cybercrime

According to experts, international submarine fibre optic cables and a new internet exchange point have enabled independence from satellites for international connections, making internet access more affordable. However, this growth has also brought with it various forms of cybercrime, including:

  • Computer-related fraud
  • Cyber harassment
  • Hacking
  • Distributed Denial of Service attacks (DDoS)
  • Website defacement

Prioritizing Internet Security

As a result, Madagascar is prioritizing internet security by adopting laws related to cybersecurity. In 2014 and 2015, the country introduced several laws aimed at enhancing national cybersecurity capacity.

Leading Stakeholders

  • Telecommunications Regulatory Authority
  • Ministry of Post, Telecommunications and New Technologies
  • Ministry of Justice
  • Ministry of Public Security
  • Network Information Center Madagascar
  • Internet Society

Cybersecurity Capacity Review

To assess Madagascar’s cybersecurity capacity, a review was conducted using the Global Cybersecurity Capacity Centre (GCSCC) methodology. The review found that the country is currently at a “formative” stage in its cybersecurity maturity, with some features of the aspect beginning to grow and be formulated.

Challenges

  • Lack of well-thought-out consideration of resource allocation
  • Little trade-off decision-making concerning relative investment in various elements of the aspect
  • Absence of observable evidence
  • Lack of clear mechanisms for altering strategy depending on prevailing circumstances

Recommendations

Based on the review’s findings, several recommendations have been made to improve Madagascar’s cybersecurity capacity:

Improve Cybersecurity Capacity

  1. Develop a national cybersecurity strategy with clear objectives and priorities
  2. Establish a robust incident response plan and conduct regular exercises
  3. Implement technical security controls, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems
  4. Promote awareness and education among the public and private sectors on cybercrime prevention and response
  5. Encourage responsible disclosure practices among organizations and individuals

By addressing these recommendations, Madagascar can improve its cybersecurity capacity and protect itself from the growing threat of cybercrime.