Cybercrime Threats Rise as 2 Billion New Users Go Online by 2030
Cybercrime threats are increasing as 2 billion people are expected to join the internet by 2030, raising concerns over online scams, phishing and data security.
Cybercrime threats are becoming a growing global concern as approximately two billion additional people are expected to gain internet access by 2030. While expanding connectivity will create new opportunities for education, communication, financial services and economic development, it will also expose millions of first-time internet users to online fraud, phishing attacks, ransomware and identity theft.
According to estimates, around 2.6 billion people, representing nearly one-third of the world's population, currently remain without internet access. If connectivity continues to expand at its present pace, billions of people could soon enter the digital world. However, cybersecurity experts warn that online safety measures and digital awareness programmes are not developing quickly enough to protect these new users.
A Growing Cybercrime Threat for First-Time Internet Users
The risks of entering the digital world are already becoming evident in countries where internet adoption is increasing rapidly.
Anicet Etekpo, a security officer in Benin, experienced an online scam in 2022 after clicking a Facebook link sent by someone he believed was a friend. The link redirected him to a fraudulent platform that requested personal information, including bank account details. The incident resulted in significant financial losses and raised concerns about the security of his personal data. His experience highlights a major challenge facing new internet users: recognising fraudulent messages and websites before sharing sensitive information.
Experts point out that online criminals frequently exploit people's trust in friends, family members, financial institutions and government organisations. As more individuals begin using digital platforms, cybercriminals are finding new opportunities to target inexperienced users.
AI and Social Engineering Making Online Scams More Sophisticated
Cybercriminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence, automation and social engineering techniques to make their attacks more convincing.
Fraudulent messages can now be designed to appear as if they come from trusted local banks, government departments or service providers. Criminals also create fake websites, promote malicious mobile applications and distribute phishing links designed to steal personal and financial information. Artificial intelligence is making these activities more sophisticated by helping attackers produce convincing messages, impersonate legitimate organisations and create misleading digital content.
Cybersecurity experts also warn about the growing use of deepfakes, which could make it increasingly difficult for individuals to distinguish genuine communications from fraudulent ones.
Some cybercriminal networks operate through encrypted communication channels and underground online forums. These networks even provide ready-made phishing tools, stolen credentials and other resources that allow individuals with limited technical knowledge to participate in cybercrime.
Africa Faces Increasing Cybersecurity Challenges
Africa is among the regions facing significant cybersecurity challenges as internet connectivity expands.
Although countries such as South Africa and Seychelles have achieved relatively high internet penetration rates, several rural areas and developing economies continue to face limited connectivity and inadequate digital infrastructure.
The situation is particularly concerning in parts of Benin and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where access to reliable internet services remains uneven. According to figures cited by Interpol, cybercrime-related financial losses in Africa have more than doubled since 2024, increasing from $192 million to $484 million.
The rapid growth of internet adoption across the continent could further increase exposure to online fraud and digital attacks if adequate security measures are not introduced. Experts believe that affordable internet access must be supported by cybersecurity education, stronger digital regulations and accessible reporting systems for victims of online fraud.
Why Digital Literacy Is Becoming Essential
One of the biggest challenges is that many first-time internet users are unfamiliar with common online threats.
Without proper guidance, users may unknowingly share passwords, click suspicious links, download harmful applications or provide banking information to fraudulent platforms. Digital literacy programmes can help individuals understand how to identify suspicious websites, recognise phishing attempts and protect their personal information. Schools, universities, governments, telecom companies and technology organisations have an important role in educating new users about responsible internet practices.
Stronger consumer protection policies are also necessary to ensure that victims of online financial fraud have access to reporting mechanisms and appropriate support.
Governments and Cybersecurity Organisations Strengthen Their Response
Several international organisations are working to address the growing cybercrime problem.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has developed initiatives focused on improving cybercrime detection, digital security and international cooperation. Similarly, the FBI operates specialised cyber investigation teams, while the UK's National Crime Agency has participated in international investigations targeting major ransomware groups.
The International Telecommunication Union has also highlighted cybersecurity risks, including phishing, online fraud and ransomware attacks, through its Global Cybersecurity Index. However, experts argue that investigating cybercriminals after attacks occur is not enough. More attention must be given to preventing attacks before individuals become victims.
Cybersecurity protection should therefore be treated as an ongoing process rather than a one-time technical requirement.
More Connected Devices Could Increase Future Security Risks
The expansion of internet access will also bring a significant increase in connected devices.
Beyond computers and smartphones, internet-connected technology is increasingly being integrated into healthcare equipment, vehicles, household appliances, industrial infrastructure and public services.
Industry forecasts suggest that the number of connected Internet of Things (IoT) devices worldwide could exceed 38 billion by 2030. While these technologies can improve efficiency and convenience, they also create additional opportunities for cyberattacks. Poorly secured devices can become entry points for hackers, potentially affecting individuals, businesses and critical infrastructure.
As a result, cybersecurity standards must evolve alongside technological development to ensure that new digital services remain safe and reliable.
Conclusion: Online Safety Must Grow Alongside Internet Access
The expansion of global internet connectivity represents an important opportunity to reduce the digital divide and provide millions of people with access to information, education and economic opportunities. However, the growing cybercrime threat highlights the importance of making online safety a priority from the beginning.
Governments, technology companies, educational institutions and cybersecurity organisations must work together to strengthen digital literacy, improve consumer protection and develop stronger security systems.
For millions of first-time internet users expected to come online by 2030, learning how to navigate the digital world safely will be just as important as gaining access to it.
Source : https://shorturl.at/9NZec
Follow The Global Biz Insider for More Such News .