One out of 100 Nigerians suffered stalkerware in 2020, an analysis by Kaspersky has revealed.

The report noted that Nigerians faced malware hidden in their devices while using the internet. The firm described stalkerware as having life-and-death consequences.

“One out of every 100 mobile users in Kenya and Nigeria are affected by Stalkerware,” said the global cybersecurity and digital privacy company in a statement.

It added, “Even though these numbers might seem low, especially when it comes to stalkerware, it bears mentioning that this form of attack is focused on specific individuals.”

Describing the insidious danger of stalkerware, Kaspersky noted, “So, unlike general malware that is distributed on a massive scale, stalkerware is a more personal crime that has life and death consequences for the individual affected.”

“For example, a perpetrator can track down their estranged partner with ill intentions, or human trafficking rings targeting children,” explained Lehan van den Heever, Enterprise Cyber Security Advisor for Kaspersky in Africa.

The firm urged users to remain vigilant and protect themselves from the growing threat of cyberattacks as stalkerware can track users’ locations, read their messages, view their photos, videos, and listen in on telephone conversations.

It advised users to protect their devices with strong passwords and block the installation of apps from third-party sources. It also recommended installing mobile antivirus software.