One in 100 Nigerians suffered stalkerware attack in 2020: Report

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.
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette

Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices

Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

NationWide
Tinubu inherited bad roads, tackling infrastructure deficit headlong, says senatorÂ
The senator said that the administration had been reconstructing existing roads.

States
Police nab eight Gombe suspects over alleged robbery, internet fraud
Mr Abdullahi urged them to report suspicious activities to the security agencies.

NationWide
Non-implementation of master plan responsible for Coastal road flooding: Umahi
Mr Umahi thanked the contractor handling the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, Hitech Construction Company Ltd. for efficiency.

NationWide
D’Tigers beat Rwanda 106-62 in World Cup Qualifier
Mr Okoye said, “Going home 3-0 feels amazing, but the job is not done. Representing Nigeria means the world to me, and every opportunity to wear this jersey is a blessing.”

NationWide
Lagos deputy governor, APC state chairmen hail Tinubu’s visionary leadership
Mr Hamzat described Mr Tinubu as an inclusive leader who encouraged innovation and welcomed superior ideas irrespective of their source.

NationWide
2027: Pray for Nigeria, vote credible leaders, ex-Niger CAN chairman urges votersÂ
Mr Echioda urged eligible Nigerians to participate actively by voting for competent, God-fearing, and credible candidates with proven records of service.






