Experts in the cybersecurity space have stressed the need for vigilance and collaborative online behaviour, saying that these remain the most effective defence against cyber threats. According to a TransUnion report, at least 67 per cent of Rwandans were targeted by email, online, phone call or text message scams between August and December 2024. Speaking during a five-day workshop on cybersecurity and cyber-terrorism held in Kigali from September 8 to 12, Ghislaine Kayigi, Cybersecurity Standards Officer at National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA), said responsibility to stay safe online begins with user discipline and awareness. The event was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in partnership with the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF). ALSO READ: Scammers, extremists double down on online attacks on youth Kayigi asked the participants to take a lead in helping others by raising awareness about the importance of cyber hygiene which involves strong passwords, and regular software updates. “Look for more knowledge around this topic and try to equip people around you. Cyber-security and cyber-terrorism are evolving. If you get ways to be safe from malicious mechanisms, then the malicious people will also look for ways to breach your security measures,” she noted. “For the tech-savvy and non-tech-savvy, we always have to inform ourselves, learn more so that we can help each other to make sure that we keep the cyber space in Rwanda secure and resilient,” she added. ALSO READ: NCSA discuss major cyber threats, mitigation strategies Throughout the workshop, participants were able to explore cyber-related issues, including how terrorists exploit ICTs, online radicalisation, terrorism financing, and the role of emerging technologies. The workshop also addressed digital identity, cyber threat intelligence, social media investigations, digital forensics, the challenge of balancing security with privacy and freedom in cyberspace among many. ALSO READ: Email-related fraud increasingly targeting Rwanda Maj. Faustin Ngaboyimanzi, Technology Director at EASF, said the training aimed to build participants’ skills in preventing cybercrime and safeguarding their digital presence. He highlighted the growing cyber threat landscape, noting that cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated, frequent, and globally interconnected, posing serious risks to infrastructure, financial systems, and national security. He noted that every user is a target and a potential weak-link, therefore, awareness and vigilance are crucial. “Think before you click is a non-negotiable principle,” he said, as he also called for institutional preparedness where organisations must invest in cybersecurity policies, response teams, and regular training. ALSO READ: Why cyber security is critical today more than ever Elysee Ishimwe, a recent graduate from University of Rwanda, acknowledged that the digital era is rapidly advancing, and so are the evolving cyber tricks targeting people. He noted that there is a need for vigilance and extending support to the less informed users as a way to minimise risks. “Many people are still unaware of these tricks. We need to ensure we at least understand the basics, because sometimes we unknowingly help attackers deceive us, which undermines the positive side of technology that we are now having,” he said.
