Global cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has raised fresh concerns about the growing risks tied to artificial intelligence adoption, warning that the technology is rapidly transforming the cyber threat landscape across East Africa.
Speaking at the AI Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya summit in Nairobi, the company highlighted how the increasing integration of AI into business operations, government systems, and everyday digital services is creating both opportunities and new vulnerabilities.
The event, held from May 19 to May 21, brought together technology leaders, policymakers, and cybersecurity experts to examine how artificial intelligence is shaping the region’s digital future. Kaspersky used the platform to caution that while AI is accelerating innovation, it is also equipping cybercriminals with more sophisticated tools.
According to the company, one of the major concerns is the rise of AI powered cyberattacks, where malicious actors use machine learning tools to automate hacking processes, create more convincing phishing schemes, and exploit system weaknesses at scale. These developments, analysts say, make traditional cybersecurity approaches increasingly inadequate.
Kaspersky noted that businesses across East Africa, particularly small and medium sized enterprises, are especially vulnerable due to limited cybersecurity infrastructure and awareness. As more organisations digitise their operations, the gap between technological adoption and security readiness continues to widen.
The company also pointed to the growing use of generative AI in fraud schemes, including deepfake technology and automated social engineering attacks. These tools can be used to impersonate executives, manipulate communications, and bypass verification systems, posing serious risks to financial institutions and corporate entities.
Despite the risks, Kaspersky emphasised that artificial intelligence remains a powerful driver of economic growth in the region. Governments across East Africa are investing in digital transformation initiatives, with Kenya positioning itself as a leading technology hub on the continent.
The summit also highlighted broader regional ambitions to leverage AI for sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, and public service delivery. However, cybersecurity experts warned that without parallel investment in digital protection systems, these advancements could expose critical infrastructure to cyber threats.
Kaspersky urged organisations to adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity, including investing in AI driven defence systems, strengthening data protection frameworks, and improving employee awareness of digital risks. The company stressed that human error remains one of the most common entry points for cyberattacks.
Industry observers say the discussions at GITEX Kenya reflect a turning point for Africa’s digital economy, where the focus is shifting from rapid adoption to sustainable and secure implementation of emerging technologies.
As artificial intelligence continues to expand across the continent, the balance between innovation and security is expected to become a defining challenge for governments and businesses alike.
