Cybersecurity challenges in Northern Africa: Rising DDoS threats

As Northern Africa undergoes rapid digital transformation, expanding connectivity emerges as both a significant asset and a potential risk

Countries such as Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, and Morocco are experiencing a notable surge in Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, emphasising the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity across the region. The 1H2024 DDoS Threat Intelligence Report (TIR) by NETSCOUT highlights country-specific trends, uncovering unique and shared challenges in the region's cybersecurity landscape.

Tunisia: Multi-vector DDoS complexity

Tunisia saw 4,511 DDoS attacks, with the majority targeting wired (3,529) and wireless (574) telecommunications carriers. The NETSCOUT report reveals Tunisia faced the most complex attacks in the region, with up to 27 vectors, including ARMS, CLDAP, COAP, and DNS amplification, amplifying the severity of threats.

Libya: Growing threats in a developing digital space

In Libya, the rise in DDoS attacks coincides with the country’s expanding digital infrastructure. The report recorded 698 DNS amplification incidents, 337 ICMP attacks, and 211 STUN incidents, among others. A single attack employed 23 different vectors, reflecting a growing sophistication in cyber threats.

Algeria: Minimal attacks, high stakes

Algeria experienced the fewest DDoS incidents, with 452 reported attacks. Most targeted wired telecommunications carriers (411) and computing infrastructure providers. Despite the lower volume, DNS amplification techniques highlight the urgent need for robust network defenses to protect critical communications infrastructure.

Strengthening Northern Africa’s cyber resilience

The rise in DDoS attacks across Northern Africa, as reported by NETSCOUT, mirrors the cybersecurity risks linked to digital growth. To protect critical infrastructure and ensure resilience, organizations in Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, and Morocco must adopt comprehensive cybersecurity measures.

"The increase in DDoS attacks across Northern Africa measured by NETSCOUT in its latest report reflects the broader cyber risks associated with digital expansion. As organisations in Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya and Morocco grow their online presence, so too must they adopt robust cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure digital resilience," remarked Bryan Hamman, regional director for Africa, NETSCOUT.