The rise of digital technology has significantly impacted various aspects of daily life, making it an essential tool for productivity. However, this convenience has also introduced new risks, particularly with the increase in online fraud and cybercrime.
In Tanzania, reports indicate a 57% increase in mobile phone fraud attempts between March and June 2024. The regions of Rukwa and Morogoro are leading in these attempts, according to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).
The rise in these fraud attempts parallels a spike in online crime incidents in 2023. Over Sh5.06 billion was reported stolen through mobile networks, involving both bank transfers and ATM withdrawals.
The TCRA’s report for the quarter ending in June 2024 shows that attempted fraud cases reached 22,257, up from 17,318 reported in March of the same year. Of these, 14,553 cases originated from Rukwa and Morogoro, accounting for more than one-third of all reported attempts.
Other regions such as Mbeya, Dar es Salaam, and Arusha also recorded significant numbers of fraud attempts, while areas like North Pemba, South Unguja, and South Pemba reported very low figures, each with 0.01% of the total attempts.
Before reaching the current levels, there was a 17.29% decrease in reported fraud attempts from December 2023 to March 2024, compared to the 20,939 cases reported previously.
According to a report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), incidents of cybercrime reported to the police from January to December 2023 increased by 363 cases, representing a 36.1% rise. The total number of reported crimes grew from 1,006 in the previous year to 1,369.
The most common cybercrimes include online harassment, which rose from 363 incidents in 2022 to 475 in 2023, a 30.9% increase. The reporting of false information also saw a significant rise, from 32 cases in 2022 to 69 in 2023, an increase of 115.6%.
Other notable increases include unsolicited messages, which rose from 57 to 64 cases, and adult pornography, which jumped from 20 cases in 2022 to 45 in 2023. Racial insults also saw a sharp rise, from 75 cases to 235.
The number of citizens falling victim to mobile network scams has also increased. Between January and December 2023, 3,731 cases were reported, compared to 2,951 in the previous year, marking a 26% increase. Fraudsters stole Sh5.06 billion from 431 individuals.
In response to this growing threat, the police have outlined strategies to combat online crime. These include encouraging youth participation in economic activities, urging financial institutions to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for loans, and lowering high interest rates on loans.
The police also plan to provide public education, especially on entrepreneurship, collaborate with institutions to uphold community ethics, and educate internet users on the importance of secure passwords and not sharing them.
Further, ongoing education about the 2020 Cybercrimes Act, which was revised in 2022, is deemed crucial. Information technology expert Doreen William supports this view, stressing the need for foundational education on digital technology starting from early schooling.
William suggests integrating technology usage programs into school curricula to ensure that children and adults understand how to use digital tools safely and effectively. Without this foundational knowledge, individuals are more vulnerable to cybercrimes.
Anania Kapala, a technology expert from Mwananchi Communications Limited, also emphasizes the importance of user education in preventing online crime, including creating strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links, and recognizing online fraud.
Kapala advocates for awareness campaigns through social media, schools, and media to enhance public understanding of online crime. He also highlights the role of security technology, such as fraud detection programs and encryption, in reducing the risk of theft.
Finally, online security specialist Roshan Pyar points out that the increase in fraud attempts indicates a rise in internet usage in communities. Pyar notes that the lack of proper education on technology has led to the recent incidents of personal information leaks through mobile lending companies.
Pyar also highlights the issue of minors accessing the internet without supervision, which increases their risk of encountering online crime. He calls for stricter controls and better protective measures for children online.
